Vanderbilt Project on Prosecution Policy
Vanderbilt Project on Prosecution Policy is a new criminal justice policy hub that will primarily focus on prosecution in the South.
Overview
The Vanderbilt Project on Prosecution Policy (VPOPP) is a nonpartisan network of prosecutors, researchers, students, and other stakeholders dedicated to improving individual and collective outcomes in the criminal justice system. The Project supports communities that traditionally have been overlooked by national policy centers. Through trainings, research, conferences, and technical assistance, VPOPP engages criminal justice leaders, particularly prosecutors in the South, to develop and implement policies and programs that reduce unnecessary incarceration and promote public safety.
VPOPP is housed in Vanderbilt Law’s Criminal Justice Program and will be collaborating closely with highly experienced and respected Vanderbilt Law faculty members affiliated with the program.
Prosecution in the South: Challenges and Innovative Solutions
Prosecutors, advocates, and academics recently gathered at Vanderbilt Law School for a summit on “Prosecution in the South." This event included 70 attendees from judicial districts across the south, representing thought leaders from across both sides of the aisle.
Faculty Director
Alissa Heydari
Research Professor
Alissa Marque Heydari is an expert on criminal law, prosecution, and criminal justice policy. Prior to joining Vanderbilt Law School, she served as acting director of the Institute for Innovation in Prosecution (IIP) at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. While at the IIP, Alissa launched its Beyond Big Cities program, which successfully engaged prosecutors from around the country in smaller, rural, and conservative jurisdictions.
Before running the IIP, Alissa was an Assistant District Attorney in New York County (DANY), where she handled hundreds of cases, including violent felonies and homicides. While at DANY she served as Acting Criminal Court Supervisor and was a member of the Sex Crimes Unit and Elder Abuse Unit.