NCJ Number
232959
Date Published
April 2004
Length
35 pages
Annotation
Using both quantitative and qualitative data, this study examined determinants of length of stay at Woodside Juvenile Detention Center (WJDC), Vermont's only locked juvenile detention facility.
Abstract
The regression model that predicted WJDC length of stay showed that youth admitted for being out of control/at risk to commit illegal acts had significantly longer detention stays than youth admitted for violent behavior. The lengths of stay of youth admitted for other reasons did not differ significantly from those of youth admitted for violent behavior, after controlling for other factors. Youth who had engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior had significantly longer stays than those who had not engaged in such behavior, and youth characterized as substance abusers had significantly shorter stays. Placement histories showed some effect on length of stay, as youth with more group home placements and fewer foster home placements had longer stays, as did those who ran away more often. Females spent significantly less time at Woodside than males with comparable offense histories. Youth from three districts - Hartford, St. Johnsbury, and Newport - had significantly longer stays than youth from Burlington. Survey respondents indicated that the primary determinant of length of stay is lack of alternative placements. Generally, the current detention system does not meet the needs of caseworkers, and many survey respondents indicated that it also does not meet the needs of juvenile residents. The study analyzed Woodside data for the 358 admissions that occurred between April 1, 2002, and March 31, 2003. A survey was conducted of family court judges, social and rehabilitation caseworkers, and Emergency Services Program personnel. 5 tables and 5 references