Hard Times for Bad Kids

• NCJ Number: 153343
• Journal: ABA Dated: (February 1995) Pages: 66-69
• Author(s): M Curriden
• Date Published: 1995
• Length: 4 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Legislation/Policy Analysis
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article reviews juvenile court policies and procedures for dealing with juvenile offenders who have committed serious crimes.

Abstract

Although the number of juveniles who have committed crimes has remained about the same or risen only slightly the past decade, the offenses have become more serious and more deadly, according to statistics from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Many critics of the current juvenile justice system argue that it was never designed to handle the serious criminal matters that now come before it. Juvenile court experts have identified five basic components of an effective program for dealing with juvenile crime. They are early prevention and intervention, evaluation of needs, court procedures, programs for those more violent, and reintegration into society. Any program that lacks even one of these components will be seriously weakened. Minnesota, long known for liberal politics and well-funded social programs, has revamped its juvenile justice system. After 18 months of study and assessment, the State has abandoned the longstanding concept that all youths can be rehabilitated and that no juveniles should be imprisoned. Some will be tried as adults and face the greater likelihood of jail time. As of January, youths involved in first-time or minor offenses would still go through the traditional juvenile court system. Those 14 years old or older who commit more serious felony offenses or who are repeat offenders would be sent to adult court. They would be given a lawyer and afforded all the rights of adult defendants. If they are found guilty, sentencing would be the same as for an adult. A trial judge, however, can suspend the sentence and transfer the youth back to juvenile court for further disposition more in keeping with traditional notions of rehabilitation. A refusal to comply with the juvenile court mandates would send the offender back to adult court.