Juvenile Delinquency Prevention and Control in Israel

• NCJ Number: 97875
• Journal: Federal Probation Volume: 48 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1984) Pages: 66-70
• Author(s): G J Bensinger
• Date Published: 1984
• Length: 5 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Presented at the 1984 Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences Meeting, Chicago, Illinois, March 27-30, 1984.

Annotation

The scope of juvenile delinquency in Israel, its prevention, and strategies for control are discussed.

Abstract

While there are no reliable statistics on the exact number of juveniles who commit crimes in Israel, available data indicate a rising crime rate, particularly for burglary, among minors. Special police units to investigate juveniles were established in the early 1960's. A Juvenile Delinquency Section is attached to the Criminal Investigation Division. Youth officers are plainclothed, drive unmarked cars, and usually are housed separately from other police units. Their primary responsibilities are the investigation and prosecution of young offenders. Police delinquency prevention activities include police scout clubs, summer camps, sports clubs, and beach patrols. In cases involving children under 13, police work closely with educational and welfare agencies. Depending on the offense and police discretion, youthful offenders may be diverted to agencies outside the justice system or remanded to courts. Juvenile courts in Israel adjudicate juvenile offenders and minors brought to attention under the Youth Care and Supervision Law. Proceedings are not public and minors' names may not be publicized. Probation services are an integral part of the social services delivery system. Probation orders range from 6 months to 3 years in duration. The goals of correctional institutions for youth are rehabilitative. Consequently, juveniles attend school, engage in vocational training, and participate in individual and small group treatment activities. Although minors over 14 years old may be sentenced to prison, they are incarcerated separately from adults. While Israel's juvenile justice system is based on modern legal and social principles, other national priorities and economic factors have limited the resources needed to cope more adequately with juvenile delinquency. Notes and 14 references are provided.