NCJ Number
107042
Date Published
1983
Length
55 pages
Annotation
In 1982-1983, the San Diego Street Youth Program used a multifaceted approach to reduce gang-related crime that included prevention, crisis intervention, enforcement, and prosecution.
Abstract
During this time, the program served 357, primarily male, clients. Program activities included community meetings and presentations. recreational events, parent and client contacts, counseling, job placement, and returning youth to school. In addition, program staff developed a community network for resource and referral purposes. Recidivism data for a sample of 122 clients indicate a decline from 16 to 11 percent following referral. In addition, gang-related felony crimes decreased by 39 percent in targeted areas and 38 percent in control areas in the year following program implementation. During the time of the program, other community and justice agencies have developed gang crime-reduction program components that appear to have had an impact on the problem. Personnel in other agencies indicated that the and is needed in the community. Additional effort is needed in meeting the program's job training and placement objectives. Program effectiveness could be increased through improved program operations and administration and by increasing community outreach and linkages. 3 figures, 19 tables, and appended research instruments and supplemental information.