Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority

Created in 1983, the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) is a state agency dedicated to improving the administration of criminal justice. ICJIA brings together key leaders from the justice system and the public to identify critical issues faced by the criminal justice system in Illinois and to propose and evaluate policies, programs, and legislation that address those issues. The agency also works to ensure the criminal justice system in Illinois is efficient, effective, and equitable. The statutory responsibilities of ICJIA fall under the categories of grants administration, research and analysis, policy and planning, and information systems and technology. Grants administration In the area of grants administration, ICJIA: - Implements and funds criminal justice and violence prevention programs under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), Adult Redeploy Illinois (ARI), Restore, Reinvest, Renew (R3) Program, and other state and federal grant programs. - Monitors program activity, ensures accountability, and provides technical assistance to grantees. Research and analysis In the area of research and analysis, ICJIA: - Publishes research studies that analyze a variety of crime trends and criminal justice issues. - Acts as a clearinghouse for information and research on crime, crime trends, and the criminal justice system. - Audits the state central repositories official criminal history record information for data accuracy and completeness. - Develops and evaluates state and local programs for improving law enforcement and the administration of criminal justice. - Provides or directs partners to technical assistance opportunities. - Identifies and provides information about evidence-based and promising practices for implementation by policymakers and practitioners. Policy and planning In the area of policy and planning, ICJIA: - Develops and implements comprehensive strategies for a coordinated response by the various components of the criminal justice system for crime prevention and control and crime victim assistance using federal funds awarded to Illinois. - Advises the Governor and the General Assembly on criminal justice policies and legislation. - Convenes groups of policymakers and practitioners to identify and address ongoing concerns of criminal justice officials. - Participates in initiatives that improve the impact and cost effectiveness of the criminal justice system. Information systems and technology In the area of information systems and technology, ICJIA: - Designs, develops, and supports systems, including Infonet, which enhance the quality of victim service data. - Serves as the sole administrative appeal body for determining citizen challenges to the accuracy of their criminal history records. - Monitors the operation of existing criminal justice information systems to protect the constitutional rights and privacy of citizens. - Supports the development of an integrated criminal justice information network in Illinois.