NCJ Number
164603
Date Published
1996
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This film focuses on violent juvenile offenders and profiles current sentencing and correctional trends as well as a Florida program that focuses on work and rehabilitation rather than incarceration.
Abstract
The discussion notes that more than 3,000 juveniles are arrested for murder each year and that more than 100,000 are arrested for violent crimes. Interviews with male and female youthful offenders at a correctional institution in Ventura, Calif. reveal their perceptions that violence has been part of their childhood lifestyle and that some committed crimes because they had nothing else to do. An interview with researcher James Wilson notes that in all cultures, a small percentage of youthful males are impulsive and have difficulty empathizing with others. No data are available to indicate effective approaches with these youths. The discussion also notes that the juvenile justice system was designed for shoplifters and truants rather than violent offenders. Juveniles are increasingly being tried in adult court, especially in Dade County (Fla.). Nevertheless, both polls and research reveal that small, secure, alternative facilities with intensive, individualized programs can be effective. The program concludes with a profile of one such program, the Last Chance Ranch in Venus, Fla., where youthful offenders are involved in a highly structured program in which work is a central component.