NCJ Number
203469
Date Published
October 2002
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This study analyzed how existing juvenile treatment needs are determined and met in the Second Judicial District of New Mexico, which includes Bernalillo County.
Abstract
Data for the report were compiled through interviews with juvenile judges and representatives from the district attorney's office, the public defender's office, the Juvenile Probation/Parole office, local detention facilities, and treatment service providers. The report outlines judicial philosophy in this county, observations about referrals, mental health treatment options, sex offender treatment options, crisis placement, educational services, enhanced supervision, detention, and challenges to meeting juvenile treatment needs. Analysis of the data suggests that, first, the Second Judicial District is the most populated district in New Mexico. As such, there is a wider range of available services for juveniles than in other districts. Despite these additional services, gaps in treatment still exist. There are few outpatient and no inpatient services for female sex offenders; there is a need for more transitional, after-care, and intermediate home-based services; and there is a statewide gap in services for individuals aged 18 to 21 who are in need of substance abuse or sex offender treatment. Despite these challenges, the report notes that Bernalillo County offers a range of progressive and innovative approaches to juvenile justice and that other counties in New Mexico could benefit from this county's alternatives to detention.