NCJ Number
109482
Journal
Crime and Delinquency Volume: 34 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1988) Pages: 103-124
Date Published
1988
Length
22 pages
Annotation
The pros and cons of 3 policy alternatives -continuing with the current system in which drug and alcohol use are categorized as misdemeanors, divestiture of court jurisdiction, or diversion into the mental health system -- are discussed.
Abstract
The traditional rehabilitation-oriented juvenile justice system handled drug and alcohol users with greater leniency than persons involved in any other kind of offense, including other status offenses. Shifts toward an accountability, 'justice' orientation, such as that which occurred in Washington State, however, may be accompanied by increased sanctions for juveniles who commit these or other kinds of 'victimless' offenses. (Author abstract modified)