Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Introduction / Juvenile Justice

The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) provides national leadership, coordination, and resources to prevent and respond to juvenile delinquency and victimization.

The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) is an agency within the United States Department of Justice that provides national leadership, coordination, and resources to prevent and respond to juvenile delinquency and victimization. The OJJDP works to improve the juvenile justice system and promote public safety by supporting prevention programs and initiatives that focus on addressing the underlying causes of juvenile delinquency.

History of OJJDP

The OJJDP was established by the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974, which recognized the need for a coordinated approach to juvenile justice and delinquency prevention at the federal level. The agency’s mission is to provide national leadership, coordination, and resources to prevent and respond to juvenile delinquency and victimization, with a focus on improving the juvenile justice system and promoting public safety.

OJJDP Services

The OJJDP provides a wide range of services and resources to states, local governments, and community organizations, including training and technical assistance, research and data analysis, and grant funding for juvenile justice programs. The agency also works closely with other federal agencies, including the Department of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Homeland Security, to address juvenile delinquency and victimization.

Goals of the OJJDP

One of the primary goals of the OJJDP is to ensure that all juveniles who come into contact with the justice system are treated fairly and appropriately. To achieve this goal, the agency provides guidance and technical assistance to states and local jurisdictions on the implementation of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, which sets national standards for the treatment of juveniles in the justice system.

The OJJDP also supports research and evaluation to improve our understanding of juvenile delinquency and the effectiveness of juvenile justice programs and interventions. This research includes studies on risk and protective factors, the impact of early intervention programs, and the effectiveness of different types of treatment and supervision.

In addition to its focus on prevention and intervention, the OJJDP is also committed to ensuring that victims of juvenile crime receive the support and services they need. The agency supports victim services programs that provide counseling, advocacy, and other types of assistance to victims and their families.

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Last Modified: 07/02/2023

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