NCJ Number
178963
Journal
Social Justice Volume: 24 Issue: 4 Dated: Winter 1997 Pages: 170-211
Date Published
1997
Length
42 pages
Annotation
This article provides a historical view of the Massachusetts juvenile system and a brief look at its future.
Abstract
The Massachusetts juvenile system has been held as a model for a community-based system since large-scale detention facilities were summarily closed in 1972. Although the article predicts an increase in secure facilities and the reallocation of funds in that direction, it also finds reason for optimism in the fact that the system continues to rely primarily on community alternatives to address crime and violence among youth. The National Council on Crime and Delinquency’s evaluation of Massachusetts juvenile corrections concluded that much of the department’s successful intervention with young lawbreakers was the result of elements such as intensive services in small-scale secure treatment programs, many and diversified community-based programs and services, small caseloads (1 case manager for 21 youths), and the department’s ability to move youth back and forth on the continuum of services depending on their progress with rehabilitation. Tables, references