Illinois Unveils Plan To Improve Juvenile Justice System Through Best Practices

On March 20, 2015, the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) released a plan to improve the state’s juvenile justice system by implementing a range of national best practices and evidence-based programs. The plan has five core priorities: reduce the use of secure custody for low-risk youth; improve rehabilitation programs to meet the needs of high-risk youth; improve reentry programs to reduce recidivism rates; create a safe and respectful environment; and increase transparency and accountability.

The new IDJJ plan is the result of a six-month strategic planning initiative. On April 7, 2014, a federal court . . .