Indigenous Offenders and Risk: Exploring ODARA's Usefulness in the Justice System with Jennifer Hegel

This week's episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we dive into the discussion surrounding the Ontario Domestic Assault Risk Assessment (ODARA). We welcome guest expert , Jennifer Hegel who sheds light on the importance of understanding and addressing the factors influencing violence.

The ODARA consists of thirteen items that help assess the risk of domestic assault, including the history of violence, breach of release orders, presence of threats or unlawful confinement, and barriers towards support.

The results from the research project conducted in Northern Saskatchewan indicated higher recidivism rates among the participants, revealing the urgent need for effective risk assessment tools tailored to the circumstances of Indigenous offenders.

Ultimately, the episode underscores the significance of understanding the historical, cultural, and social context in order to effectively address violence and contribute to a safer society. By disseminating knowledge and promoting evidence-based practices, Resolving Violence seeks to empower service providers and the general public to work together towards resolving violence.

Learn More About Our Guest:
Jennifer Hegel (she/her) received her BA Honours in Psychology with a minor in Crime, Law and Justice Studies from the University of Saskatchewan in 2020. She has 10+ years’ work experience supporting both municipal and federal law enforcement, which has inspired her research interests in interpersonal violence and adolescent dating violence, particularly among Indigenous populations.

To connect with Jennifer Hegel, contact her at [e-mail].

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/