Reporting Crimes Against Juveniles
Introduction
The National Crime Victimization Survey
Reporting Sexual Assaults Against Juveniles
Reporting Thefts Against Juveniles
Discussion
Implications
Conclusion
References
Acknowledgments
This Bulletin was prepared under grant number 98-JN-FX-0012 from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Justice.
Points of view or opinions expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of OJJDP or the U.S. Department of Justice.
The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention is a component of the Office of Justice Programs, which also includes the Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the National Institute of Justice, and the Office for Victims of Crime. |
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From the Administrator
Crime shatters the sense of security that is an essential element of a civilized society. Crimes committed against children are particularly disturbing because they involve the victimization of an especially vulnerable—often defenseless—population.
To better serve the needs of these young victims, OJJDP is launching its Crimes Against Children publication series. Fittingly, this inaugural Bulletin addresses the crucial issue of reporting crimes against juveniles.
The Bulletin describes the findings of the National Crime Victimization Survey, which was conducted for the U.S. Department of Justice by the Bureau of the Census. Research reveals that crimes against children, too often, go unreported to police or other authorities. Even when weapons and injury are involved, the crime is less likely to be reported if the victim is a juvenile rather than an adult.
The victimization of our children should not remain hidden. The information provided here is vital to safeguarding children and ensuring justice for those who have been victimized by crime. It documents the need to adopt policies and practices that encourage the reporting of crimes against juveniles and that make it easier for these young victims to receive the assistance they need.
Shay Bilchik
Administrator
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