ABSTRACT
There are ongoing shifts at both the legislative and grassroots levels to prevent and lessen the length of incarceration stays and rates. While there are very specific differences in the re-entry needs of juveniles compared to adults, there are several significant similarities within which current reform targets. In particular, the rates of juveniles and adults who are incarcerated due to drug-related offenses and nonviolent offenses are comparable. In the state of NJ, there are approximately 4400 juveniles and adults on parole and probation. Between 2014 and 2016, New Jersey State Police reported 20,026 juvenile (ages 16–24) arrests with 52% afforded the opportunity to participate in diversion to incarceration programs for those arrested for the first time. Similar arrest and early-release rates for adults have also been implemented. The overall goal for both juveniles and adults who are low-risk, nonviolent offenders is to lower recidivism by providing community alternatives for treatment. This chapter will explore and compare the implications of emerging alternatives to incarceration in NJ, assess efficacy rates, and outline additional areas of policy reform and community changes that will continue to be impactful.
