FY 2010 Wisconsin Juvenile Accountability Block Grant

The Juvenile Accountability Block Grant Program (JABG) Program is authorized under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 2002 (42 U.S.C. 376ee). The goal of the JABG program is to reduce juvenile offending through accountability-based programs focused on both the juvenile offender and the juvenile justice system. The objective is to ensure that States and Territories are addressing the specified program purpose areas and receiving information on best practices from OJJDP. JABG funds are allocated to States and Territories based on each State's relative population of youth under the age of 18. The underlying premise of juvenile accountability programming is that young people who violate the law should be held accountable for their actions through the swift, consistent application of graduated sanctions that are proportionate to the offenses, both as a matter of basic justice and as a way to combat juvenile delinquency and improve the quality of life in the nation's communities.

Wisconsin will pass through 75 percent of its JABG award to units of local government (approximately $645,000) and award its 20 percent state share funds to units of local government as well. These funds may be used to address purpose areas 4, 8, 11, 12, 14 and 15. Activities that will be implemented to achieve the goals and objectives include addressing juvenile offender mental health and substance abuse issues through assessment and treatment, juvenile treatment courts, hiring prosecutors, and accountability programs that include school resource officer, restorative justice, and community service programs.

(NCA/NCF)