In addition, Congress should encourage the establishment of programs for the treatment of young offenders who require mental health or substance abuse services. Post-adjudication programs help to stem recidivism. Effective programs can help juvenile offenders become reintegrated into society and teach them to be responsible members of the community. The subgroup recommends that Congress provide grants for post-adjudication aftercare programs that reduce recidivism. Resources should be targeted toward neighborhoods with the highest levels of youth violence.
Juvenile violence can occur in every community, but it remains concentrated in major cities.
Since this proposal would have consequences for state and local government funding, however, it should be carefully considered. The subgroup recommends that Congress further explore directing a greater proportion of law enforcement assistance funding toward high crime areas. The following guest speakers participated in a roundtable discussion on September 15 with Reps. Dunn, Scott, Barr and Delahunt. Their presentations and written materials were used by the Law Enforcement Working Group in developing its findings and recommendations. Its causes, consequences, and control.