Applications of the American Public Health Association’s Statement on Addressing Law Enforcement Violence as a Public Health Issue

Unpacking Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Emotional Distress Among Adolescents During Witnessed Police Stops

“…Perhaps most importantly, we assert the need for policing practices and policies to be revisited to reduce overpolicing in communities of color [38e40]. Curtailment of punitive approaches to crime, such as proactive policing practices, as well as consistent consequences for abuses of power when they occur are necessary steps in mitigating risk factors that otherwise contribute to youth's emotional distress and perceived illegitimacy toward legal institutions [38]. To facilitate lasting change, however, this critical step must be accompanied by investment in state-and community-based institutions that promote adolescent health and wellness through political inclusion and civic belonging [39].…”

Mass Probation: Effects of Sentencing Severity on Mental Health for Black and White Individuals

“…For instance, providing community-based substance use recovery, mental health treatment, and employment programs instead of punitive sanctions are all potential ways to redesign this system and meet individuals’ needs—particularly if done before an arrest occurs. 3 , 35 , 41 Individuals being able to meet these needs is the foundation for achieving well-being and escaping the harms of the criminal–legal system, assigning them to lesser levels of punishment may not be enough.…”

Carceral epidemiology: mass incarceration and structural racism during the COVID-19 pandemic

“…We, as researchers and advocates, must address the harms of the carceral system by not only pursuing carceral epidemiology, but also reducing the incarcerated population; 7,45 investing in social determinants of health rather than carceral systems; committing to non-carceral measures for accountability, safety, and wellbeing; restoring voting rights for those with criminal legal involvement; and funding research to evaluate determinants of exposure to the criminal legal system and propose alternatives. 6,46…”