Finding

A lack of communication and transparency hampered criminal justice responses to the coronavirus pandemic.

Difficulty obtaining clear information and reliable guidance concerning COVID-19 was among the challenges raised most frequently by people testifying to the Commission – and by the Commissioners themselves. Recently incarcerated individuals, family members, and correctional employees described long delays in receiving critical information about the spread of COVID-19 and the medical status of particular people. Criminal justice leaders detailed difficulties they faced in identifying, translating, and disseminating critical guidance related to the pandemic. Even under normal circumstances, policymakers face a challenging communications environment. According to the Lancet, “The ease through which inaccuracies and conspiracies can be repeated and perpetuated via social media and conventional outlets puts public health at a constant disadvantage. It is the rapid dissemination of trustworthy information—transparent identification of cases, data sharing, unhampered communication, and peer-reviewed research—which is needed most during this period of uncertainty.” Political polarization has further complicated clear and reliable communication concerning the pandemic.

“Strong channels of communication are critical, and they need to be set up in advance, before a crisis hits. We have to work at this every day.”

Chief Adrian Diaz

Leaders inside and outside of criminal justice have a responsibility to navigate these difficulties and communicate transparently with relevant stakeholders and the public at large. Thankfully, research on effective health communications has shown that accurate information, combined with clear communication, can reduce uncertainty and fear, promote adherence to necessary behavior change, and build trust and hope in the face of crisis. When communicating, it is critical that justice system leaders employ these tactics, communicating what is known, admitting what is not known, and acknowledging the evolving nature of the unfolding crisis. Despite the divisions and polarization, leaders should appeal to the public spirit, emphasizing that collective action is required to overcome the nation’s health and economic hurdles. As ongoing demonstrations across the country display, in many communities there is mistrust of law enforcement and criminal justice agencies. While confidence in criminal justice and public health officials can be difficult to maintain, it is essential that agencies not only carry out policies and practices to effectively manage a crisis, but also strategically communicate their actions and build trust with communities where it is lacking.