Report Oct 19, 2026
Lessons of the Manson Case: Childhood, Institutions, & the Myth of the Born Criminal
Report by Dan Macallair examines the childhood and juvenile institutional history of Charles Manson, asking what that history reveals about the systems entrusted with the care and control of children.
California’s juvenile violent felony arrest rate in 2025 was the fourth lowest in 68 years, challenging CPOC narratives of a youth crime surge. Policy brief by Mike Males, Ph.D.
CJCJ in the News Oct 12, 2026
Settlement Reached in CJCJ Supported Kings County Disability Rights Investigation and Lawsuit
Kings County Probation Department agrees to reform Juvenile Detention Center following CJCJ supported disability rights investigation and lawsuit.
Our Work
Fighting For Justice
CJCJ’s direct services for formerly incarcerated adults and youth facing various points of entry with the criminal and juvenile justice system.
Histories of juvenile and criminal justice reform in California and the nation from CJCJ, as well as education resources.
CJCJ’s policy research, technical assistance, leadership development, and advocacy efforts.
“I had to find a program where I could have my baby. I needed to learn how to live, not how to program… At Cameo House I’m learning how to live.”
Cameo House participant with her son
Cameo House
We invest in the leadership development of formerly incarcerated and system impacted emerging leaders in justice reform throughout California
Next Generation Fellowship cohort photo
Next Generation Fellowship
CJCJ provides oversight and reporting on juvenile correctional facilities, as well as advocacy and leadership in this area.
Division of Juvenile Justice tour facility photo
Reports & PublicationsFeatured Work
More ResourcesCalifornia’s juvenile violent felony arrest rate in 2025 was the fourth lowest in 68 years, challenging CPOC narratives of a youth crime surge. Policy brief by Mike Males, Ph.D.
With 2025 crime data now available for 82.2% of California, including all 15 major cities, the state is headed for its lowest levels of crime in many decades.
California law enforcement leaders blame a lack of state investment for Proposition 36’s early failures. Meanwhile, they’re hoarding billions in untracked funds.
Fact Sheet Aug 21, 2025
The Sheriff With California’s Worst Crime-Solving Record Is Running for Governor
Former Oath Keeper and Riverside County Sheriff, Chad Bianco, is running for governor. Despite talking tough, Bianco ranks last among sheriffs in crime-solving, while deaths in his jails surge.
Fact Sheet Jul 22, 2025
Education Vs. Prison Spending
A brief one-pager on California higher education versus prison spending. Learn about our campaign and share this resource with others.