Local Implementation of Drug Policy and Access to Treatment Services for Juveniles

Authors

Yvonne M. Terry-McElrath, University of Michigan, Ann ArborFollow
Duane C. McBride, Andrews UniversityFollow

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2004

Keywords

Drugs, Juvenile, Policy, Treatment

Abstract

Although there is a vigorous national debate regarding effective drug policy, such policies are implemented at the local level. Using a national sample of prosecutors, we examine reported typical processing for first-time juvenile marijuana, cocaine, or crack possession/sales offenders. The relationship between drug offense charge and adjudication outcomes providing treatment versus a deterrence/punitive approach is explored. Findings indicate that marijuana offenses and possession offenses generally are more likely to result in access to treatment services for juveniles whereas cocaine/crack offenses and sales offenses generally are more likely to result in the application of punitive penalties such as transfer to criminal court.

Journal Title

Crime and Delinquency

Volume

50

Issue

1

First Page

60

Last Page

87

DOI

10.1177/0011128703258873

First Department

Behavioral Sciences

Recommended Citation

Terry-McElrath, Yvonne M. and McBride, Duane C., "Local Implementation of Drug Policy and Access to Treatment Services for Juveniles" (2004). Faculty Publications. 2052.
https://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/pubs/2052