In Salt Lake City, prosecutors from around the country talk reform

At last week's National Prosecution Best Practices Conference in Salt Lake City, District Attorney Sim Gill emphasized the importance of "upstream" solutions to break the cycle of criminal justice involvement. He shared how addressing community needs—like housing, healthcare, and mental health—can help prevent issues before they escalate.

Innovative ideas discussed included stopping prosecutions from non-public safety traffic stops and employing former gang members to mediate violence. Gill highlighted the need for a trauma-informed, victim-centered approach in the legal system, prioritizing support over mere convictions.

One of the innovative solutions presented was a policy from Ramsey County (MN) Attorney John Choi, who stopped prosecuting cases in 2021 that stemmed from non-public safety traffic stops — instances where police stopped a car because of an expired registration, no license plate lights, a cracked windshield or window tint, then searched the vehicle and discovered drugs or weapons. In the years that followed, non-public safety traffic stops among Black drivers decreased by 66%, Choi said, while the amount of gun recoveries didn’t change.

“There was no discernible difference … the amount of gun recoveries was very low to begin with, and it remained low,” he said.

Now, when a police officer in Ramsey County observes an equipment-related offense, they record it, but don't stop the vehicle. Within three days, the driver will get a letter in the mail reminding them to fix the violation, while offering them financial assistance to repair their vehicle.

“The feedback, I just can’t tell you in words how great it’s been. It’s really restored trust in policing in our community at a really, really critical time,” said Choi, who called the decision “the most controversial thing that I have done.”

“Investing upstream is cheaper and more effective than incarceration,” Gill stated. By focusing on prevention and community support, we can create safer, healthier communities. 💡✨

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