NCJ Number
154072
Date Published
1993
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This pamphlet describes changes being wrought in the juvenile corrections system of Montana.
Abstract
Montana has had a traditional and abusive attitudes toward juvenile corrections. Problems faced in the State juvenile justice system include overcrowded facilities, juvenile violent crime, and juvenile gang activity. Triggered by a class action lawsuit, as well as policymakers' determination to reform the juvenile justice system, Montana's Youth Corrections Programs are being overhauled to allow the management of youthful offenders within the juvenile corrections system rather than in adult jails and prisons. Other elements of the State's reform plan include decreasing the juvenile offender inmate population to high-risk offenders and developing a high-quality, long-term education, vocational, and clinical program to meet their needs; diverting low-risk youth to community-based programs; implementing intensive training for correctional facility staff; developing funding and resources to place adjudicated, mentally ill juvenile offenders; and creating local juvenile corrections coalitions. The development of an effective Statewide system depends on standardization, collaboration, creativity, role clarification, training, funding, and development of community options.