Engaging Public Resources and Community Partnerships to Prevent Crime and Violence

Jeffrey A. Butts, Rebecca Balletto, and Patricia Cobar
Research and Evaluation Center
April 2025

The Research and Evaluation Center at John Jay College of Criminal Justice reviewed some of the innovative programs operated by Maryland’s Department of Juvenile Services, including “The Thrive Academy” (TTA) and an intervention strategy known as “Safer Stronger Together” (SST). Researchers collected documents and online materials before conducting staff interviews to learn how Maryland designed these interventions and how they fit within the state’s overall crime prevention strategy. Interviews explored program operations and outcomes at individual and community levels, recent progress in developing program activities, and the Department’s ongoing efforts to evaluate its effectiveness. By interviewing agency leaders and staff, the research team gained insights into the Department’s conceptual approach to public safety and its likely impact on communities.