Boot Camps for Juvenile Offenders: An Implementation Evaluation of Three Demonstration Programs. National Institute of Justice Research Brief.

A study evaluated the implementation of three demonstration programs for male juveniles that explored how the adult boot camp strategy could be modified to serve the unique needs of juveniles. Evaluation efforts sought to determine how the three demonstration sites--Cleveland, Ohio; Denver, Colorado; and Mobile, Alabama--were choosing and screening participants, hiring and training staff, and establishing programs. All sites implemented 90-day residential programs that put youths through an intensive daily regimen of military drills and discipline and physical conditioning. Findings indicated the sites formed active public-private partnerships, developed and refined coherent program rationales, and opened on schedule. First-year boot camp completion rates were high, ranging from 80-94 percent. Youths improved in educational performance, physical fitness, and behavior. Ratings in respect for authority, self-discipline, teamwork, and personal appearance also improved significantly. Youths who graduated and remained in aftercare for at least 5 months reported positive changes in attitudes and behavior. Boot camps appeared to be more cost effective than state or local correctional facilities. Less success was found in these areas: high staff turnover, appropriate and effective disciplinary measures, finding a balance between military discipline and remedial education, and aftercare hampered by high levels of absenteeism and noncompletion. (YLB)