NCJ Number
173319
Date Published
1997
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This report updates data from the 1995 Snapshot Study and provides data on delinquent youth in New Mexico juvenile facilities.
Abstract
The New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department undertook this study a second time to reassess the characteristics of the delinquent population in long-term juvenile facilities. The data reflect that of the 207 juveniles committed to facilities for probation violations; 113 had more serious adjudicated charges for which they were placed on probation. The 1996 data also show how serious, violent offenses are sometimes diminished through plea bargaining. Key findings of this study show that the public safety risk of this population is not adequately addressed under the current system. Facilities remain dangerously overcrowded with violent juveniles who pose a high risk to public safety. Key findings also show a high level of social problems across the sample population. Among the key findings are that 539 youths were in custody at long-term juvenile facilities, 186 more than design capacity (53 percent overcrowded). Eighty-three percent have been adjudicated for violent crimes that involved victims, weapons, or significant property damage. An additional 6 percent were adjudicated for other felonies or misdemeanors against persons. The remaining 11 percent with a history of lower risk adjudications show chronic referrals to the system. Fifty-eight percent were 13 years old or younger at the time of their first referral. A total of 66 percent were not attending school at the time of their commitment, and 47 percent have a known family criminal history; 73 percent were known to be involved in gangs. The sample population of 547 youths committed 3,319 petitioned offenses over the course of their delinquency. Social problems were pervasive and evenly distributed throughout all offense categories. 18 figures and appended survey form, offense severity list, and definitions for the 1996 study