Research Strategy Area

Purpose
The PTACC Research Strategy Area drives innovation and excellence in deflection and pre-arrest diversion by fostering a vibrant national community of researchers, evaluators, and practitioners. Our mission is to advance the field through collaborative research, rigorous evaluation, and the dissemination of actionable insights that inform practice and policy. We are committed to building the evidence base for deflection, supporting data-driven decision-making, and connecting professionals who are passionate about improving outcomes for individuals and communities.

Structure
The Research Strategy Area is a dynamic, open forum led by a team of expert co-chairs and supported by PTACC. Our group welcomes participation from across the field, including academics, practitioners, policymakers, and anyone interested in the research and evaluation of diversion and deflection initiatives. Meetings are held regularly and are open to all, providing opportunities for engagement, learning, sharing, and collaboration.

Activities
Hosting engaging virtual meetings featuring timely presentations, interactive discussions, and opportunities for networking and feedback

• Maintaining and updating a directory of interested researchers and evaluators (opt-in only), to facilitate collaboration and information sharing
• Distributing meeting materials, such as presentation slides and feedback forms, to all participants
• Developing resources and tools that support research and evaluation in deflection
• Highlighting new research, best practices, and upcoming events, including the annual PTACC Summit and National Deflection Week
• Advising PTACC and the broader field on emerging trends, research needs, and opportunities for partnership

Co-Chairs
Our co-chairs bring expertise to the Research Strategy Area, ensuring meetings are informative, inclusive, and impactful:

• Christopher Campbell, Director, Criminal Justice Policy Research Institute, Portland State University
• Alex Menninger, Project Manager, Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority
• Shelly Moeller, Program Development and Evaluation, Collaborative Consulting, Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Jessica Reichert, Senior Research Scientist, Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority

Get Involved
The PTACC Research Strategy Area is the place to connect, share, and shape the future of deflection research and evaluation. Whether you are a seasoned researcher, a new evaluator, or simply interested in learning more, we invite you to join our virtual meetings, contribute your expertise, and help us build a stronger, more evidence-driven field.

For more information, please contact info@ptacccollaborative.org. Let’s advance the science and practice of deflection together!