NCJ Number
136735
Date Published
1992
Length
169 pages
Annotation
This report presents results from the evaluation of Hawaii's Act 189 which delineates the State's response to youth gangs.
Abstract
Act 189 provides for the development of a youth-gangs response system that is coordinated by the Department of the Attorney General. It incorporates the elements of law enforcement and intelligence, training and community awareness, community intervention, community prevention, information, and evaluation. A total of $1,856,743 was given to various agencies to create and sustain for 2 years a response system that was community-based, systemwide, and linked to the schools, courts, parents, government agencies, community organizations, and community leaders. This evaluation concludes that the structure of Act 189 encouraged unique and innovative collaborations between county and State agencies. These partnerships generated an impressive array of activities and initiatives. The evaluation notes problems in the allocation of resources, particularly to county police departments. The study found that the gang prevention curriculum being taught in intermediate schools (PAGE) and the truancy prevention program (SAP) shows promising impacts on participants' attitudes and behaviors. Continued modifications to improve effectiveness are recommended. The report advises that the vitality of the system established by Act 189 should not be lost as bureaucratic structures are developed. 21 tables and appended supplementary data and information