19 research outputs found

    Justice and Injustice: Homelessness, Crime, Victimization, and the Criminal Justice System

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    Using the situation in Toronto as a case study, this multi‐method study explores various aspects of the relationship between homelessness and the criminal justice system. The research was based on a literature review; analysis of administrative data; review of client files; survey of 57 homeless individuals; in‐depth interviews with 22 homeless individuals; focus groups with homeless individuals and service providers; interviews with 23 key informants; and extensive compilation of prevention programs. The literature review covers research findings on the high prevalence of incarceration among homeless adults and youth; the vulnerability of homeless individuals with mental illness and patterns of transinstitutionalization; the high prevalence of homelessness among ex‐offenders; criminalization of homelessness and the regulation of public space; types of offences committed by homeless people; the high level of victimization of homeless people; treatment of homeless people by the police and courts; cost‐effectiveness of housing provision versus institutional facilities; and service needs, issues, and recommendations. Major findings include the following: • The numbers of homeless persons arrested and cycling between jail and shelter are increasing yearly. • Clients of the John Howard Society of Toronto who were homeless at intake had fewer violent, but more property‐related, charges than those who were housed. • Homeless individuals appreciate the need for law and order, but are highly critical of perceived unfair policing practices, especially differential treatment of racialized persons. • Although homeless individuals experience a high level of victimization, they are quite reluctant to report crimes to the police and feel alienated from police protection. • Lack of service co‐ordination and adequate discharge planning are major barriers to the community reintegration of ex‐prisoners and contribute to homelessness. Suggestions for change focus on provision of transitional and supportive housing, improved discharge planning in provincial correctional facilities, and specialized programs for vulnerable sub‐groups. Part Two of the report is a catalogue of more than 70 programs and policies to reduce homelessness among ex‐prisoners and the incarceration of homeless individuals, and ten promising practices

    A visceral grief : young homeless mothers and loss of child custody

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    Condensed from CUCS research paper 206, October 2006
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