NCJ Number
195025
Date Published
2000
Length
35 pages
Annotation
This report discusses after-school programs that cut crime and reduce risky behavior.
Abstract
The hour after school ends is the prime time for juvenile crime, kids becoming victims, and other dangers. During that hour, millions of children and teens are turned out onto the streets with neither constructive activities nor adult supervision. On school days, the prime time for violent juvenile crime is from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The single most likely hour of the school day for a juvenile to commit an assault inflicting serious bodily injury, or an assault with a weapon, is between 3 and 4 PM. This also is the peak hour for gang-related violence. Quality after-school programs and other constructive supports help young people stay away from involvement in crime. Chances are that they will probably stay out of serious trouble the rest of their lives, thus reducing not only juvenile crime but adult crime as well. The report includes narrative and statistics in support of its claim that: "Investments in after-school programs, especially for the children most at risk of sliding into delinquency or becoming victims of crime, do pay for themselves, not only in lives saved but even in tax dollars saved." Notes, figures, resources