NCJ Number
234237
Date Published
2006
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This report looks at what became of the approximately 16,000 youth under state juvenile justice system supervision and custody when Hurricanes Katrina and Rita struck the Gulf Coast in August of 2005, specifically, how the impacted jurisdictions responded to the challenges posed by the storms, what lessons were learned, and how these lessons can be applied to improve the system's response to future catastrophes.
Abstract
When Hurricanes Katrina and Rita struck in August 2005, the impacted states held approximately 16,000 youth under supervision and custody. This report looks at what became of these youth, how the jurisdictions responded to the challenges posed by the storms, what lessons were learned, and how these lessons can be applied to improve the response to future catastrophes. The report presents five "Key Findings" accompanied by recommendations to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) regarding how to support jurisdictions and states impacted by the storms and help jurisdictions prepare for future crises: 1) Prior emergency planning makes a significant difference in how effectively detention and correctional facilities respond, particularly when facilities network with other agencies and jurisdictions to coordinate their emergency response plans; 2) Widespread disruption in the operation of juvenile and family courts (as well as probation and child protective services) compromise the safety of youth and communities; 3) The incidence of PTSD and other serious mental health problems creates an urgent need for expanded mental health services; 4) Rapid relocation of youth and families results in conflict between new arrivals and residents of host communities; and 5) Structured time and activities are critical to re-stabilize the lives of youth upended by crises. In implementing the recommendations, OJJDP will be most effective by keeping in mind two underlying themes that emerged in the analysis. First, collaborative planning is essential for an effective response to a crisis. Juvenile justice systems that responded most effectively to the storms were active members of an established, collaborative body and cooperative planning. Second, the impact on youth, families, and juvenile justice professionals will likely continue for years. Ongoing risk and needs assessment, and flexibility in service organization and delivery, will be necessary.