What is LEL and why was it founded?

Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime and Incarceration (LEL) was launched in 2015 as a project of the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law to advocate for a smarter, stronger, and fairer justice system. Responding to nationwide calls for criminal justice reform, this bipartisan coalition brings together nearly 200 current and former police chiefs, sheriffs, federal and state chief prosecutors, attorneys general, and corrections officials from across the country committed to supporting practical, tested policies that reduce incarceration without jeopardizing public safety. LEL’s members represent a wide range of perspectives, geographically, demographically, and politically.

How can someone become a member of LEL?

Membership in LEL is open to individuals who currently hold or have held leadership roles in law enforcement including current and former police chiefs, federal and state chief prosecutors, attorneys general, sheriffs, and correctional leaders from across the country who are dedicated to our mission of reducing both crime and incarceration. If you are interested in becoming a member or would like to recommend someone for membership, please fill out our membership inquiry form.

Do members need to pay dues?

No, there are no membership dues required to join LEL. Our work is fully funded by philanthropic support through the Brennan Center which allows us to focus on our mission without financial contributions from our members.

What opportunities are available for members?

Members of LEL have opportunities to contribute to national conversations around public safety and criminal justice reform through participation in public events, serving as media experts, lending their expertise to advocacy efforts, and co-authoring op-eds and other written products. LEL also hosts members-only virtual and in-person events. All members receive a quarterly newsletter to stay up to date on the latest news from around the network and upcoming opportunities.

Does LEL host events?

Yes, we host virtual and in-person events throughout the year. These include invitation-only meetings where members can network, share innovations, and brainstorm with each other and with national experts. We also organize congressional briefings, panels, and other public events where members participate in informative and timely conversations about public safety and criminal justice policy. For upcoming events, visit the Events page. 

What type of advocacy does LEL support?

LEL supports a wide range of policy advocacy that aligns with the mission of supporting a smarter, stronger, and fairer criminal justice system through evidence-based practices. Our primary focus is on federal initiatives, though we also at times support efforts in states where our members are located. For advocacy inquiries, please fill out our contact form on the Contact Us page. LEL does not provide legal representation or legal advice and cannot provide assistance or advice in individual cases.

Where can I find bills supported by LEL?

Documents such as letters of support, policy statements, and endorsed bills can be found in the Advocacy section. These materials provide insight into the legislative and policy positions LEL supports at the state and federal levels.

How can I contact LEL for press inquiries?

For press inquiries, please visit the Contact Us section of our website where you can find specific contact information or submit a form to request interviews or statements. You can also directly email our media team at media@lawenforcementleaders.org.