Colorado Revised Statutes Title 16. Criminal Proceedings § 16-11.3-101. Legislative declaration

(a) Ensuring public safety and respecting the rights of victims are paramount concerns of the citizens of Colorado;

(b) Improving the effective administration of justice involves a comprehensive examination of, and recommendations regarding, the criminal and juvenile justice systems;

(c) Current commitments to the department of corrections require expending a significant percentage of the state budget for incarceration of offenders;

(d) The number of offenders projected to be sentenced in the future will require that an even greater percentage of the state budget be dedicated to incarceration;

(e) The rate of recidivism is high, resulting in the return of many offenders to the justice system with additional significant expense;

(f) It is in the interest of the people of the state of Colorado to maintain public safety through the most cost-effective use of limited criminal justice resources;

(g) Many factors may contribute to an offender's criminal behavior, including but not limited to substance abuse and substance use disorders, behavioral or mental health disorders, poverty, child abuse, domestic violence, and educational deficiencies. Factors contributing to criminal conduct and re-victimization are frequently not addressed adequately within the justice system.

(h) Appropriate intervention in a child's life through the juvenile justice system or prevention programs may limit or prevent future criminal conduct;

(i) It is in the best interest of the public to engage in a comprehensive, evidence-based analysis of the circumstances and characteristics of the offenders being sentenced to the department of corrections, the alternatives to incarceration, the effectiveness of prevention programs, and the effectiveness of the criminal code and sentencing laws in securing public safety.