NCJ Number
170006
Editor(s)
K Suter
Date Published
1998
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This fiscal year 1997 Annual Report of the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission reports on the Commission's work and provides information and statistics on programs, services, finances, and management.
Abstract
The Texas Juvenile Probation Commission has a mission to work in partnership with local juvenile boards and their local juvenile probation departments to provide a comprehensive range of community-based probation services. This mission is achieved through a continuum of services and programs that include prevention, early intervention, and rehabilitative programs; maximize family participation and accountability; are community- based, family-oriented, and as least restrictive as possible; include a mix of residential and nonresidential services; and are a balance of public and private services and resources. Fiscal year 1997 was the first year the juvenile justice system in Texas fully implemented the vast number of changes enacted by the 74th Texas Legislative Session. The 74th Legislature was committed to improving the juvenile justice system. Part of this reform was the institution of progressive sanctions. Optional guidelines provide a continuum of seven progressive steps designed to balance public protection, offender accountability, and rehabilitation. Levels one through five relate to the community- based probation end of the system. Other efforts pertain to juvenile justice alternative education programs, program evaluation, substance abuse project, construction bond projects, and a program that targets minority male youths. Juvenile justice statistical information addresses arrests and referrals of juveniles; supervision, detention, and court activity; drugs and gangs; and a profile of juvenile offenders.