Public Accountability Report

Created in 1983, The Illinois Criminal Justice Authority (Authority) is a state agency dedicated to improving the administration of criminal justice. The Authority 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 and effective.

The Authority’s specific powers and duties are detailed in the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Act (20 ILCS 3930).

The responsibilities of the Authority generally fit into four areas: grants administration; research and analysis; policy and planning; and information systems and technology.

Grants Administration 

• Implements and funds victim assistance and law enforcement programs under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program, Victims of Crime Act, Violence Against Women Act, and other grant programs as they become available;
• Monitors program activity and provides technical assistance to grantees.

Research and Analysis

• Publishes research studies on a variety of crime trends and criminal justice issues;
• Acts as a clearinghouse for information and research on crime and the criminal justice system;
• Audits the state central repositories of criminal history record information for data accuracy and completeness; and
• Develops and tests statistical methodologies and provides statistical advice and interpretation to support criminal justice decision-making.

Policy and Planning

• Develops and implements comprehensive strategies for drug and violent crime law enforcement, crime control and prevention, and assistance to crime victims using federal funds awarded to Illinois;
• Advises the governor and the General Assembly on criminal justice policies and legislation;
• Coordinates policymaking groups to learn about ongoing concerns of criminal justice officials; and
• Participates in initiatives that improve the impact and cost effectiveness of the criminal justice system.

Information Systems and Technology

• Designs, develops, and supports systems 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; and 
• Supports the development of an integrated criminal justice information network in Illinois.