NCJ Number
102214
Date Published
Unknown
Length
5 pages
Annotation
In Colorado, the inappropriate detention of juveniles in adult facilities is recognized as a problem and is being dealt with by the County Sheriffs through the Juvenile Jail Removal Initiative.
Abstract
On the basis of input from local decisionmakers and agency representatives, program components were formalized. Plans were examined, improved, and implemented for locally based detention criteria, intake screening, transportation to secure detention, and nonsecure placement and treatment. Emphasis was placed on the elimination of juveniles from County jails and in choosing the least restrictive alternatives. In most counties, dispositional decisions based on screening guidelines are reached within 6 hours, while the juvenile is still in the custody of the arresting officer. Screeners generally are from a social service, mental health, or probation agency. An examination of 1982 and 1983 juvenile detention data indicates the number of youth held in adult jails decreased significantly. However, children who could benefit from nonsecure community placement, primarily runaways and truants, were still falling through the cracks. Therefore, a number of counties have developed nonsecure, short-term placements and a broader range of counseling programs. While much has been accomplished, a statewide needs assessment plan is being developed to further address the technical and financial aspects of secure and nonsecure juvenile placement and treatment.