NCJ Number
77261
Date Published
1981
Length
501 pages
Annotation
This report describes the processing and dispositions of violent felony offenses and juvenile offenses throughout New York State from January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1980.
Abstract
Responsibility for efforts concerning these offenses was assigned to the State's division of criminal justice services as a result of legislation passed between September 1978 and August 1980. Under this legislation, the State provides resources to components of the criminal justice system to aid in the processing of these types of cases. During 1980, statewide violent felony arrests declined but indictments increased. Analysis of the law's impact showed that the postlaw trial rate increased in every area of the State and the number of verdicts increased significantly, especially in New York City. The plea rate and number of pleas fell dramatically. The conviction rate declined by 0.9 percent. The disposition rate fell, processing times increased, and backlogs increased, especially in New York City. In the 28 months since the enactment of juvenile offender legislation, there have been 3,738 arrests throughout the State, with three-quarters of the arrests for robbery. A total of 529 convictions have occurred, and 147 juveniles have been sentenced to placement in facilities of the division of youth. During the first 6 months following enactment of the State's gun law, 6,188 firearms arrests were reported. The statewide indictment/arrest rate for gun offenses was 60 percent for arrests through January 18, 1981. Monitoring of the overall program's fiscal aspects indicate that each program component is operating in accordance with its budget and is appropriately meeting the program goals. Figures, tables, footnotes, and an appendix presenting 174 tables on arrests, processing, dispositions, and other subjects are provided.