NCJ Number
232961
Date Published
August 2002
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This study, funded by the Justice Research and Statistics Association in collaboration with the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, examined Colorado's juvenile diversion programs during fiscal year 2001.
Abstract
The study found that during fiscal year 2001, there were no statistically significant differences between the number of minorities and non-minorities accepted to and successfully completing Colorado's juvenile diversion programs. In addition, the proportion of juvenile in diversion programs was representative of the proportion of juveniles in the general population. The study did find, however, that some diversion programs suggested more bias towards minorities than others. Data for this study came for an examination of cases sentenced to 32 juvenile diversion programs across Colorado from July 1, 2000, - June 30, 2001. The purpose of the study was to determine the extent to which minorities were disproportionately represented in the State's juvenile diversion programs. Information was obtained on demographics, current crime type and severity, criminal history of participants, the referral decisionmaking process, services provided, and program outcome. Results of the examination were distributed to programs across the State, and positive feedback regarding the information was from staff members. Discussion of the current status of juvenile diversion programs in the State of Colorado is included in this report. Tables, figures, and appendixes