How does the PSA work?

The PSA generates scores that predict three pretrial outcomes: failure to appear pretrial, new criminal arrest while on pretrial release, and new violent criminal arrest while on pretrial release. Scores for failure to appear and new criminal arrest range from 1 to 6. Lower scores indicate a higher likelihood of pretrial success. The PSA also flags an elevated likelihood of being arrested for a new violent crime.

Each jurisdiction using the PSA develops its own policies regarding pretrial decision making. A Release Conditions Matrix helps judicial officers relate the PSA scores to services that will support a person’s success on pretrial release, if such services are necessary.