Missouri and Hawaii: Leaders in Youth Correction Policy

• NCJ Number: 139954
• Author(s): K R Gorsuch; M D Steward; R K Van Vleet; I M Schwartz; W Matuso
• Date Published: Unknown
• Length: 32 pages
• Corporate Author: University of Utah; University of Michigan; Boston Mills Press
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Program Description (Model)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The juvenile correctional reforms implemented in Missouri and Hawaii are described as models for other states to follow.

Abstract

The Missouri reforms resulted from litigation that focused on unconstitutional and unprofessional practices. The system now limits the use of incarceration to youth who are serious violent and chronic offenders. It relies heavily on community-based services, particularly innovative, intensive, and less costly non-residential services. Funds once committed to group homes and residential treatment services are now being reallocated to nonresidential alternatives. Hawaii has created a free-standing Department of Youth Services and separated youth corrections from the adult corrections department. It has also significantly reduced the population of the State's one large training school through the development of community-based programs. Other reforms include designing one small, 32-bed secure treatment facility for the entire State and developing and starting to implement a plan to serve youth on their home islands. Chapter note and reference lists