NCJ Number
203479
Date Published
November 2002
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This study analyzed how existing juvenile treatment needs are determined and met in the 12th Judicial District of New Mexico, which includes Otero and Lincoln Counties.
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 these counties, observations about referrals, juvenile justice assessments, 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 the 12th Judicial District has a strong, integrated approach to juvenile justice and juvenile treatment. A strong collaboration was noted among the district attorney, the public defender, juvenile judges, and juvenile probation professionals. Juveniles with outpatient treatment needs are being well-served in the 12th Judicial District, but there are no inpatient treatment providers for sex offenders or for juveniles with mental health or substance abuse problems. As such, these juveniles must obtain referrals to statewide resources that often have long waiting lists. Juveniles who cannot secure inpatient treatment are often committed to State custody because of a lack of treatment options. This lack of inpatient treatment providers is the most salient problem facing the 12th Judicial District and has far-reaching consequences for juveniles and their families.