On January 21, 2016, the organization that became the Florida Center to Advance Justice announced its formation with an event at the James Madison Institute, featuring renowned politico Grover Norquist (pictured) in a Right on Crime discussion. A 501(c)(3), the center's mission is to educate and inform Floridians on best policies and practices to increase public safety, save taxpayer dollars, and increase the likelihood that justice-involved youth and adults will become contributing members of society.
The center's CEO is Jim DeBeaugrine, who was staff director of the Florida House Criminal Justice Appropriations Committee for 10 years and, more recently, was director of the Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities. The organization's vision was born out of a need for there to be recognized leader in convening vibrant and diverse forums to discuss all aspects of juvenile and criminal justice policy that result in systemic reform.
A packed house of 15 state legislators and a number of agency heads, commissioners, and representatives of associations and providers participated in the meeting. A variety of topics were discussed, all of which have a bearing on Florida's criminal justice policies. We would like to thank the James Madison Institute for its partnership in this event and all of those that took the time to engage in this pivotal discussion. We will keep you informed as more events and discussions arise.