For most analyses data were examined for three groups: a transition group of 355 youths who were in Montrose during the period it was being closed, a pre-closing group of 318 individuals who were committed at Montrose and released a month before the February closing, and a post-closing group of 256 youths who had a relatively high statistical probability of institutionalization. Releasing the transition group members 16 days sooner than they otherwise would have been released did not result in higher recidivism for the transition group. The post- closing group offended at higher rates than the institutionalized groups and especially during the first year following release. The post-closing group's recidivism was significantly higher than that of the institutionalized groups for crimes against persons, crimes against property, crimes involving drugs, and for both serious and less serious crimes. The study findings suggest that placement in the available alternatives when Montrose was closed proved less effective in reducing crime than institutionalization. 4 tables