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IHDD Releases Report on People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the Criminal Justice System
The IHDD has published a new report titled People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the Criminal Justice System. The project was led by Dr. Mark Harniss, Director of the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) at the IHDD and Dr. Sherrie Brown, Research Professor Emeritus in the College of Education, and past Associate Director of the IHDD.
Commissioned by the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council (WADDC) and funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the report examines how people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are treated in the criminal justice system in Washington State and across the country. Drawing on existing laws, prior research, and interviews with experts, the review identifies barriers to fair treatment and offers actionable recommendations for change.
Key recommendations include:
- Specialized training for police, court personnel, and corrections staff to better recognize and respond to disability-related needs.
- More community-based alternatives to incarceration, such as diversion programs and specialized courts.
- Stronger reentry supports to help individuals successfully return to their communities, including housing, healthcare, and disability services.
Because this is a rapid review, the findings are based on existing evidence rather than new data collection. While not exhaustive, the report provides a critical starting point for advocacy, policy reform, and systems change to ensure people with I/DD receive equitable treatment and meaningful support within the justice system.
Read the report: People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the Criminal Justice System
