In the state of Louisiana age fourteen is the legal age for an individual to be tried as an adult for specific cr

All of the data used within the article is first hand, being that the author is also one of the main developers of the program that is being discussed. By the author being involved in the entire process, he can give a much better illustration of what actually goes on with the program and how well it works. “…understanding and meeting the needs of youthful offenders continue to be a challenge for the entire DCI stag. While this program is still in the developmental stage, recommendations for the successful implementation of a youthful offender program include having the flexibility to make changes, hiring experienced and dedicated staff, starting with a small population, reviewing/researching other programs and providing the necessary staff training. The youthful offender Program impacts participants in two major ways: assisting offenders with their adjustment to prison and providing the necessary tools to reintegrate them into society reducing recidivism. While it is still early to access the impact on long-term recidivism, it is encouraging to note the positive impact the program has had on the offenders.” (LeBlanc, J, Corrections Today, Oct. 2002, Pg. 111)

imes. In order for the state to be able to handle and contain these youthful offenders within a correctional facility, some changes and adaptations had to be made. Richard L. Stalder, secretary of the Louisiana Dept. of Public Safety and Corrections, what chosen to develop a program that would incorporate rehabilitation efforts through education, mental health therapy, religious involvement and recreation for the youths into the daily routines and structure of the Dixon Correctional Institute.

Upon completion of each level a certificate is presented to the individual at a special ceremony, upon completion of the entire program certificates are awarded at a formal graduation. After graduation, they are given the option of a transfer to a facility closer to home, to a facility offering training in a trade of his choice, or to a work release facility. In addition to that parole board gives favorable consideration to successful youthful offenders; to date, it has granted early release to every successful youth offender who has been eligible for parole. (LeBlanc, J, Corrections Today, Oct. 2002, Pg. 111)

The education portion of the program consists of three classes; literacy, GED preparation and computer literacy. The Test of Adult Basic Education survey placement is administered at orientation. As indicated by the test scores, youthful offenders are placed in either the GED or literacy class. On the first day of class, the TABE Complete Batter is administered and a study plan is tailored to the individual’s needs using the Skills Assessment Modules and is tested every two months to determine their progress. (Leblanc, J, Corrections Today, Oct. 2002, Pg. 109)

In February 1999, 45 male youthful offenders ages fourteen through nineteen were brought into Dixon to go in front of the youthful Offender Board. The Board was compromised of one representative from administration, security, classification, medical and mental health services, education, substance abuse treatment and chaplaincy. Here the individual was interviewed, and goals were developed and set to be accomplished within specific time frames as well as incentives for these goals to be completed within that range. Along with the individual goals set by the Board, the offenders will be addressing their education, training in areas such as vocational and social skills, medical as well as medical and mental health needs. The Dixon Correctional Institute didn’t have the funds to build special areas for the program so everything was incorporated into daily facility activity with the regular prisons. The institute did however receive additional funding to improve on certain aspects of the program. (LeBlanc, J, Corrections Today, Oct. 2002, Pg. 108)

Much like the article analyzed ear

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