NCJ Number
134344
Journal
Insight Into Corrections Dated: (October 1991) Pages: 2-7
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The development of the Illinois juvenile justice system is described.
Abstract
The first juvenile court in the nation was created in 1899 in Illinois in response to the need of a juvenile justice system separate from that used for adults. The goals of the juvenile justice systems today is not to punish young people for wrongdoing, but to provide individual treatment and guidance. Under the Juvenile Court Act, the Juvenile Division provides secure custody and rehabilitative programs to 1,300 youths aged 13-21. The majority of these juvenile offenders are economically poor, uneducated, and with little hope for goals. The division operates six youth centers statewide: IYC-Harrisburg and IYC-Joliet in southern Illinois and IYC-Pere Marquette, IYC-St. Charles, IYC-Valley View, and IYC-Warrenville in the northern parts of the State. Although each facility provides academic, vocational, recreational, and clinical and medical services, unique characteristics set them apart. The field services component of the Juvenile Division provides support services including counseling, job finding, supervision of juveniles on leave from youth centers, and placement in a foster home when necessary. The Juvenile Division Staff is successfully taking in different types of youth and altering programs to meet the changing needs of the population.