NCJ Number
163317
Date Published
1995
Length
95 pages
Annotation
Since juveniles at high risk for drug use are also at high risk for delinquent behavior, this project assessed the status of drug testing in juvenile detention centers.
Abstract
Project goals were to conduct a national assessment of existing drug testing programs; to develop prototype elements of a urine drug testing program; to develop related policies and procedures; and to implement urine drug testing programs at three juvenile detention centers in Tennessee, Ohio, and Missouri. The project found that significant intervention must occur to prevent repeat offenses and to prevent juveniles from graduating to the adult criminal justice system. Providing a system of drug use detection and intervention can be important in preventing recidivism. Further, juvenile detention centers can detect drug use by testing detainees during the intake process. Urine drug test results represent a valuable tool for assessing the needs of detained juveniles. Knowledge of drug use allows appropriate intervention and treatment options to be incorporated in case management plans, and drug use is an important component in the overall medical and psychological profile of each juvenile. A history of the project's development is provided, and site visit summaries and program evaluations are included. Appendixes contain additional information and forms pertinent to the implementation of urine drug testing programs. References and tables