2013 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. 3796ee et. seq.). 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 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.

The Nebraska JABG Program is consistent with the purpose outlined by the OJJDP offender-focused and system-focused activity promotes accountability of juvenile offenders. Nebraska will pass through 75% of 2013 JABG funds to localities. Nebraska anticipates that two purpose areas will be addressed with FY2013 JABG dollars. Purpose Area #10 will be addressed by establishing and maintaining interagency information sharing programs that enable the juvenile and criminal justice systems, schools, and social services agencies to make more informed decisions regarding the early identification, control, supervision, and treatment of juveniles who repeatedly commit serious delinquent or criminal acts. Purpose Area #11 will be addressed by establishing and maintaining accountability-based programs designed to reduce recidivism among juveniles who are referred by law enforcement personnel or agencies. It is anticipated that focus will be placed upon these purpose areas, but local programs may apply within Nebraska if they intend on addressing one of the eighteen purpose areas. In this case, Nebraska would fill out a Grant Adjustment Notification to provide the proper scope of the JABG allocation. All applicants will measure progress toward goals and objectives through providing the Crime Commission with quarterly Grant Activity Summary reports, which include a narrative and Federal Performance Measure outputs and outcomes. NCA/NCF