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Unique Approach to Improving Juvenile Justice

NCJ Number
123175
Date Published
Unknown
Length
59 pages
Annotation
New Jersey's Juvenile Delinquency Commission helps legislators understand and deal with juvenile delinquency issues.
Abstract
The Commission monitors juvenile justice trends and contributes to system improvements. It consists of 21 members reflecting diverse juvenile justice interests. The Commission focuses on research and analysis rather than on advocacy to insure that juvenile justice policies are based on fact and not on speculation. In addition, the Commission hosts special policy forums to address issues of particular concern. These have included the implementation of New Jersey's Juvenile Code, restitution in delinquency cases, juvenile detention, drugs and youth, juvenile auto theft, and community corrections. Special working groups have been formed to address detention centers, penalty reform of the Comprehensive Drug Reform Act, developmentally disabled offenders, crisis intervention, and juvenile detention admission criteria and alternatives. The Commission provides ongoing assistance to legislators, policymakers, and juvenile justice professionals and functions as a clearinghouse for disseminating juvenile justice information and technology. Commission observations and recommendations are listed, and sample 1989 Commission newsletters are included.