NCJ Number
137104
Date Published
1991
Length
140 pages
Annotation
Since Louisiana's Office of Juvenile Services became the focus of a Federal court case which resulted in a consent decree, the State's Office of Youth Development has been committed to developing an effective prison prevention strategy for Louisiana youth.
Abstract
This report outlines the current status and needs of Louisiana's juvenile justice programs. Following a summary of the characteristics and needs of the youths who become involved with the juvenile justice system, the report describes available intervention programs including prevention, supervision services, short-term intensive programs, community-based alternatives, and aftercare programs. Target groups needing special services include female adolescents, teenage parents, substance abusers, emotionally disturbed youth, adult age offenders, and sex offenders. Intake screening, assessment and clarification, reassessment, and managed care are some of the procedures used for classifying and placing youth who come under the State's custody. The report also discusses staffing needs, agency financing and budgetary trends, organizational structure and roles, management information, and evaluation procedures. Another chapter explores problems specific to violent and chronic offenders including programming, institutional care, and treatment services. The State's juvenile justice system's goals are set forth and possible strategies for obtaining them are considered.