NCJ Number
161390
Journal
Residential Treatment for Children & Youth Volume: 12 Issue: 2 Dated: (1994) Pages: 37-48
Date Published
1994
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study found that electronic monitoring of Michigan juveniles in their homes was positively regarded by youth and family members and did not unduly invade their privacy, that electronic monitoring was less costly than institutionalization, and that augmenting residential treatment with treatment-focused electronic monitoring offered an effective alternative to residential treatment.
Abstract
The In-Home Detention and Assessment Program was developed as an innovative pilot project to meet the needs of newly committed and postcommitted youth in Wayne County, Michigan. These youth were considered lower risk in terms of nonviolent behavior at home, in school, and in the community. An evaluation of the pilot project found that electronic monitoring of juveniles detained in their homes appeared to be humane and did not constitute cruel and unusual punishment or invade family privacy. Electronic monitoring kept juveniles with their families and provided treatment for both the offender and the family. In addition, electronic monitoring represented a cost-effective augmentation of residential programs. The author concludes that electronic monitoring of juveniles in their homes offers a mechanism for providing community-based services which, in combination with residential programs, may lead to more effective rehabilitation outcomes. 17 references