NCJ Number
72679
Date Published
1976
Length
58 pages
Annotation
A juvenile justice program serving the Omaha Indian Reservation in Nebraska was evaluated, with emphasis on its probation program and its work for juvenile betterment in cooperation with other community agencies.
Abstract
The program started on March 10, 1975, and was evaluated through December 31, 1975. Evaluation data were collected from existing records and structured interviews. Results indicated that the program provided a viable probation option for sentencing and was viewed positively by the juveniles served, their parents/guardians, and community agencies. In addition, the program worked in a preventive capacity in some cases, did appropriate conferring or referral work in the community, and cooperated with the court and police. Lack of adequate baseline data prevented determination of achievement of the goals of 10 percent reductions in school truancy, recidivism and group crimes, and juvenile crime. Nevertheless, trends during the funding period indicated no decrease in these factors, although improved recordkeeping may have masked positive results. Data on impacts on employment, completion of high school, and types of crimes are also unavailable. It is recommended that the program be continued. Its responsibilities should be clearly defined, job descriptions developed, and recordkeeping improved. In addition, staff training and ongoing consultation with staff should be instituted. Tables and appendixes presenting study materials and crime classifications are included. (Author abstract modified)