The Dangers of Detention

The Impact of Incarcerating Youth in Detention and Other Secure Facilities

By Justice Policy Institute

December 9, 2007

Summary

Despite the lowest youth crime rates in 20 years, hundreds of thousands of kids are still being locked away in secure detention centers, or juvenile jail. But lock up does not deter crime and does more harm than good for the kids themselves. This policy brief looks at the consequences of detention on kids and communities and the positive results coming from Casey’s Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI). 

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Key Takeaways

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations