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Systematic Analysis of Diversion - Net Widening and Beyond

NCJ Number
97914
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Dated: (1985) Pages: 207-216
Author(s)
S H Decker
Date Published
1985
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This analysis focuses on the operation of a juvenile diversion program in a large metropolitan area.
Abstract
In particular, the impact of the program on referrals made by the police to the juvenile court is examined. Consistent with most studies of diversion, a significant amount of net widening was found to occur following the introduction of the program. A time-series design using a four-year-preprogram and four-year-program period was employed to examine the trends in processing over time. Referrals for all categories of offenses rose significantly during the program years. The implications of these results are discussed in light of both police commitment to the goals of diversion and the legal safeguards in juvenile processing. (Author abstract)