NCJ Number
126378
Date Published
1989
Length
76 pages
Annotation
This report of the Arizona Subcommittee on Detention reviews conditions in the State's juvenile detention facilities and recommends improvements.
Abstract
The study found unsafe conditions in many juvenile detention facilities, resulting in liability risks, threats to public safety, and ill treatment for juveniles. Funding is unavailable to hire a sufficient number of qualified detention personnel, improve training, and upgrade facilities. Enforceable standards for detention facilities do not exist. A lack of facilities and services for children requiring shelter care has resulted in status offenders and nonoffenders being detained without cause. Juveniles are typically "warehoused," without the opportunity to participate in education, psychological, and recreational programs. Recommendations include increased funding for detention facilities, the creation and enforcement of progressive standards for detention policies, the hiring of a sufficient number of qualified personnel, and the implementation of initial and ongoing training for detention personnel. Appended supplementary information.