Data in Action: Tracking Progress Toward Closing Rikers

A Day-of-Launch NYC Jail Population Dashboard Overview

On November 21, 2024, John Jay College’s Data Collaborative for Justice (DCJ) unveiled a cutting-edge dashboard offering comprehensive, real-time data on New York City’s jail population, projections for future trends, and in-depth context on the City’s plans to close Rikers Island. Designed as a one-stop resource for public officials, advocates, researchers, and the public, the dashboard provides updated daily insights essential for understanding and tracking this critical transition.

Data Scientist, Liz Johnson, led a one-hour webinar (including audience Q&A) to introduce this multifaceted tool, moderated by DCJ Director, Michael Rempel. Additional insights were provided by Data Scientist, Tao Lin, and Associate Director of Research, Joanna Weill.

VIEW THE DASHBOARD

➡The dashboard features:

• Daily updates on NYC’s total jail population
• Breakdown of sub-populations (e.g., held in pretrial detention, on jail sentences, or on parole violations)
• Data on racial disparities and the racial composition of the jail population
• Trends in the women’s population and mental health service needs
• Rolling projections forecasting population trends one year ahead.

The Homepage also provides crucial context on the City’s Rikers Island closure plan, with an interactive timeline and actionable, data-driven strategies for reducing the jail population.