America’s Criminal Justice System Interaction, Housing Opportunities, and Job Sustainability: Perceptions from Residents of the Greater New Haven Area

Abstract

This study explored the perceived relationship between criminal justice system (CJS) involvement and housing and employment outcomes among residents of the Greater New Haven area. Prior research has demonstrated that individuals with criminal records or histories of incarceration often face significant obstacles when attempting to secure stable housing or employment. Through qualitative analysis of survey responses from 47 participants, this study highlights how increased contact with the justice system is perceived to negatively impact job sustainability and housing opportunities, while limited or no contact appears to serve as a form of privilege. Using an inductive coding method, recurring themes were identified and analyzed to examine how individuals with different levels of CJS involvement perceive the long-term consequences of legal system contact. The findings emphasize the compounding nature of these challenges, particularly for low-income residents, and ultimately contribute to broader conversations on the structural barriers that persist in reentry and poverty-alleviation efforts. To conclude, this research emphasizes the need for equitable policy reforms that address housing and employment barriers tied to criminal justice involvement