NCJ Number
158350
Journal
New England Journal on Criminal and Civil Confinement Volume: 21 Issue: 2 Dated: (Summer 1995) Pages: 429-432
Date Published
1995
Length
4 pages
Annotation
National statistics indicate that, between 1987 and 1991, the number of arrests for violent juvenile crimes increased by 50 percent, twice the increase for persons 18 years of age and older, and the same trends have emerged in Massachusetts.
Abstract
Nationally, the number of juveniles arrested for murder increased by 85 percent between 1987 and 1991, compared to a 20 percent increase for the adult population. The estimated number of 122,900 juvenile arrests for violent crimes in 1991 was the highest in history. Similar trends have occurred in Massachusetts, and the city of Worcester is beginning to experience an influx of juvenile gang activities, juvenile drug distribution networks, arson, and domestic violence. Further, the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services has experienced a significant increase in juvenile commitments without the necessary funding. In response to increasing juvenile crime, the juvenile court in Worcester has become a community-based court and supports the concept of alternative sentencing. Worcester's juvenile probation department has implemented a community-based supervision program. Worcester has also developed educational programs to prevent juvenile detention, an early intervention program for juvenile drug abusers, and a violent offender program.