NCJ Number
120933
Date Published
1989
Length
6 pages
Annotation
An analysis of information from a random sample of juveniles admitted to Wisconsin's two training schools showed that a community-based approach to juvenile corrections might work, because 68 percent of the youths were incarcerated for non-assaultive offenses and 59 percent had no history of violent offenses.
Abstract
The 370 youths represented half of those admitted to the State's 2 secure juvenile correctional facilities in 1986. Information was gathered on their sex, race, disabilities, prior delinquent behavior, criminal offenses, education, vocational training, employment, family relationships, drug and alcohol use, prior placements out of the home, emotional stability, and history of running away. Each youth was then classified using a structured scale similar to those used in Colorado, Delaware, Oregon, and other jurisdictions. The scale combined measures of offense severity and chronicity with other risk factors. Results indicated that only 27 percent of the youths required such secure placement. In addition, 26 percent would be appropriate for community placement and 47 percent would be appropriate for short-term care followed by community care. Tables and footnotes.