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An Arresting View of Juvenile Justice

NCJ Number
139484
Journal
School Safety Dated: (Spring 1992) Pages: 15-17
Author(s)
D Huizinga; F Esbensen
Date Published
1992
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Data from the Denver Youth Survey are used to examine who gets arrested, what kinds of offenses are committed, and the effect of arrest on a youth's subsequent delinquent behavior.
Abstract
The Denver Youth Survey is a study of child and youth development. Youths and one of each of their parents have been interviewed annually over the past 5 years to obtain information on psychological and social development, families, friends, school neighborhoods, and their involvement in prosocial activities, delinquency, and drug use. Findings indicate that arrest is a relatively common occurrence for youth in the neighborhoods included in the Denver study. For the older youth, almost half are arrested before they become adults, most likely for a minor offense. Arrest rates increase with age; males are substantially more likely to come to the attention of the police. No substantial racial differences were found. The more serious street offenders (robbery, aggravated assault, auto theft, theft over $100, and gang fights) have a higher probability of being arrested than do other types of juvenile offenders, and these offenders are also the recipients of harsher sanctions following a court appearance. Findings also indicate, however, that the majority of street and other serious offenders do not get arrested. Among those arrested, the arrest had little effect in deterring most youth from future delinquent behavior. This suggests that delinquency prevention programs are needed for both the large number of active offenders not apprehended and those who have not yet begun their delinquent careers. Schools can have a central role in preventing delinquency. 5 references