When I started Innovative Prosecution Consulting (IPC), my goal was to see “real” change … specifically fair outcomes for communities of color in the criminal justice system. I wanted to focus on prosecutors because they are the most powerful actors in a courtroom. However, I knew that to see progress I would need to use data to drive the evolution of prosecutor’s behaviors and mindsets. And I have seen it work. At IPC, we have seen how data leads to fairness.

The key is using data to inform and guide us. For instance, I suspect crime statistics and criminal justice reform will be hot topics in the upcoming presidential race. Former President Trump falsely alleged at a March rally that crime is out of control and soaring. Ask yourself, “Where is the data to support this argument?” It is simply not there, because nationally crime has fallen since 2020.

My hope is that as Americans watch these campaigns as we approach election day, now less than 100 days away, we avoid falling prey to false narratives or vitriol. Instead, we must ask, “What policy, data or evidence is being offered by the candidates?” If we want to see real change, we need to start with data.

See it on LinkedIn first.