NCJ Number
105831
Date Published
1986
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews and assesses juvenile diversion and alternative sanctions in the Netherlands.
Abstract
One of the most successful Dutch juvenile diversion programs targets lower class youth encountered by police and assists them (juvenile participation is voluntary) in resolving practical problems related to family, school, and work. Another diversion program, called HALT, targets vandals and enlists them in repairing or paying for the damage done. There is a problem in giving police the discretion to refer juveniles to diversion programs, since police have neither the time nor the procedural framework for properly handling such referrals. The diversion decision should be made by prosecutors. Alternative sanctions provided for juveniles include community service and intermediate treatment, which involves training in social and other skills important for positive social adjustment. In 6 out of 19 court districts experimenting with these alternative sanctions, 432 sanctions implemented in 1 year were assessed. Ninety-five percent of the sanctions involved community service, and only 5 percent consisted of training programs. Seventy-three percent of the sanctions were determined by the judge, and the remainder were determined by the prosecutor. Prosecutorial diversion provided for speedier dispositions. The use of diversion and alternative sanctions reflects both concern for the juvenile's positive maturation and the structuring of accountability suitable to the offense. The programs are weak in the implementation of juvenile due process rights since procedures are informal. Three court districts require lawyers in such cases to ensure the juvenile's rights are protected. 9 notes.