NEWS | February 17, 2026
Deflection Program Implementation Evaluation
New! Implementation Evaluation of a Program to Assist Victims of Violent Crime: Staff and Stakeholder Feedback
Deflection programs are designed to improve outcomes for individuals, communities, the justice system, and public health.
ICJIA Researchers evaluated the implementation of the East St. Louis Community Engagement Response Team, a police-led deflection program that supports victims of violent crime. Engagement specialists serve as intermediaries between law enforcement and local service providers offering mental health and domestic violence services, as well as grief counseling.