Department of Juvenile Justice data indicates that juvenile gang membership has increased steadily over the last five years. Approximately 5% of the youth referred to the department for delinquency offenses have been identified as gang members. While most referred juvenile gang members have not committed serious and violent crimes, they are at increased risk of doing so.
As recommended by the Blueprint Commission on Juvenile Justice, the department is beginning to develop a statewide gang control strategy. National research has identified evidenced-based strategies and programs that reduce delinquency and the risk factors for gang participation. However, the department's current prevention and intervention programs are not targeted at gang members. The Redirection Program is showing promise in reducing offending by identified gang members. The Legislature could consider expanding the criteria for placing youth in this program to include identified gang members who are assessed to pose a high risk to re-offend.

Redirection Program Achieves Lower Recidivism and a $14.4-Million Cost Savings Compared to DJJ Commitment
Report 08-41 June 2008
DJJ Should Better Identify At-Risk Youth, Use Proven Prevention Models, and Revise Funding Practices
Report 08-07 February 2008

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.