NCJ Number
108798
Date Published
1986
Length
133 pages
Annotation
This evaluation of the Arizona juvenile delinquency reduction fund program examined implementation, attitudes toward the program, and effectiveness in reducing juvenile recidivism using survey data for parents, school and criminal justice personnel, and program participants.
Abstract
A of total of 83 percent of respondents felt that juveniles should be held accountable for the consequences of their behaviors, and 85 percent felt that the program consequences (e.g., restitution, community service, education) were appropriate and could help reduce delinquency. In 1985, 10,941 juveniles were adjusted through the program. Of these, 70 percent were white and two-thirds were male. About 50 percent of offenses were misdemeanors; a 25 percent were felonies; and the remainder were status offenses, ordinance violations, and similar offenses. Recidivism rates for first-time offenders varied from 7.5 percent in one county to 44.4 percent in another. Overall, the program appears to provide a lever for the court to ensure that juveniles participate in programs with a potential to reduce recidivism. County program descriptions are appended. 15 tables.