Colorado Parks & Wildlife Research Library

Young people incarcerated in Colorado are in crisis. Violence in Colorado's Division of Youth Corrections facilities has risen dramatically in recent years, leaving youth and staff feeling unsafe and afraid. Colorado's youth correctional facilities have higher rates of fights and assaults than other states, and youth and staff are commonly injured during these incidents. In this chaotic and violent environment, children cannot thrive.

Research shows that emerging adults share many of the same characteristics of their younger peers, with "risk-taking" being a hallmark. But during this distinct developmental period, youth are particularly malleable and responsive to positive relationships and experiences. The vast majority of emerging adults will mature and desist from crime, irrespective of the level of the offense. This report focuses on ways that YOS can support this maturation...

To provide a procedural and substantive understanding of the legal framework which governs the child welfare system.