NCJ Number
180216
Date Published
January 1999
Length
39 pages
Annotation
This report describes implementation of a new method of operation in Virginia State juvenile correctional centers.
Abstract
The new initiative, LEADER, is a military school style daily regimen and vocational training program. Four juvenile correctional centers (JCCs) and the State's reception and diagnostic center have implemented LEADER, but the reception and diagnostic center is the only facility operating LEADER as designed. Paroled halfway house residents interviewed for this report expressed concern that there are not more halfway houses or similar step-down residential facilities available in the State for youth leaving the highly structured LEADER JCCs. They felt that LEADER is appropriate in the JCC but should not be continued as part of parole in the community. Forty-five percent of paroled juveniles were rated very good or good in their overall attitude to community adjustment. Sixty-five percent of parole officers surveyed reported a significant positive or moderate positive change in juveniles' attitude compared with juveniles who had no experience with LEADER. The report contains four recommendations concerning the program. Notes, tables, appendix