NCJ Number
84619
Date Published
1982
Length
126 pages
Annotation
Research indicates that juvenile violence and gang-related crime decreased in the San Diego area from 1977-81. Despite this, juvenile violence remains a serious problem that requires a more effective response from the juvenile justice system.
Abstract
Data gathered from official records, case studies of 614 juvenile offenders, and a survey of over 1,000 juvenile justice personnel and service providers show no basis for the perception that juvenile violence is increasing. Gang-related crime fluctuates, but receded slightly in 1981; decreases are probably partly due to the shrinking juvenile population. Official statistics indicate that, regardless of declining rates, offenders are repeating crimes. Furthermore, a review of recent regulations reveals that the justice system as a whole became more lenient with violent juvenile offenders over the 5-year study period, although violent offenders were treated more severely than property offenders. A new response to violent juvenile offenders is called for, emphasizing earlier intervention and focusing on family and social institutions. School-related problems, poor economic background, and association with peers with a history of deviance are indicators of risk. The research recommends local treatment alternatives to complement existing services. The juvenile justice system should establish guidelines forcing greater consistency in juvenile processing and more thorough recordkeeping, especially on gang-related crimes. Accurate case histories could be the basis for increasing sentence severity for repeated crimes. Programs to reduce gang-related offenses should develop realistic and measurable objectives. Additional recommendations are provided. Appendixes contain the study methodology, the survey instrument, and a description of an Arizona program for violent juveniles.