Indiana Criminal Justice Association Inc.

The Indiana Criminal Justice Association Inc. is a US nonprofit organization focused on enhancing the continuum of the criminal justice system in Indiana.

History

The organization was founded in 1933 as the Indiana Probation Association. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes to better reflect its expanding scope within the criminal justice field. In 1950, it became the Indiana Probation and Parole Association. This change acknowledged the growing professional stature of corrections. By 1965, the association's name was changed to the Indiana Correctional Association to include professionals from various sectors of the criminal justice system. In 2010, it adopted its current name, the Indiana Criminal Justice Association (ICJA), to reflect the diverse disciplines represented among its members[3].

Mission

The mission of ICJA is to enhance the criminal justice system in Indiana by enriching the professional development of its members and promoting cooperation among different sectors of the criminal justice field. This includes parole, probation, correctional facilities, community-based programs, law enforcement, the judiciary, and related governmental and private agencies[1][2].

Objectives

ICJA's core objectives are to:

• Promote awareness and understanding of the criminal justice system.
• Foster a spirit of cooperation among various disciplines within the field.
• Raise standards of professional practice in treatment and rehabilitation services.
• Provide training and educational opportunities for criminal justice professionals across Indiana[1].

Membership and Impact

Membership is diverse, encompassing professionals from multiple sectors of the criminal justice system. This includes individuals involved in parole, probation, law enforcement, judiciary roles, and community-based correctional programs. The organization serves as a platform for addressing shared challenges and advancing professional standards[2].