John Pfaff

About the Author

John Pfaff is a distinguished legal scholar and professor of law at Fordham University, where he specializes in criminal justice and sentencing policy. With a background that includes clerking for federal judges and practicing law, Pfaff has emerged as a leading voice in the national conversation on prison reform. His groundbreaking research challenges conventional narratives about mass incarceration, emphasizing the pivotal role of prosecutors over legislative changes. In his acclaimed book, Locked In: The True Causes of Mass Incarceration-and How to Achieve Real Reform, Pfaff dismantles myths and proposes evidence-based strategies for meaningful change. A frequent contributor to outlets like The New York Times and The Atlantic, Pfaff's work bridges academia and public policy, advocating for a fairer justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment.