Blog Oct 20, 2010
Bizarre Drug Czar Logic
The most fundamental disagreement between drug policy reformers and drug warriors such as Office of National Drug Control Policy chief Gail Kerlikowske – who is warning that the federal government may sue to overturn California’s Proposition 19 should the initiative to legalize adult possession of small quantities of marijuana pass on November 2 – is what constitutes “the problem.” Reported the Associated Press on October 20: Kerlikowske was in Southern California on Wednesday for…
Blog Oct 17, 2010
Proposition 19 Provokes Legislative Reform
Regardless of the outcome of the November election, Proposition 19 ‘s strong poll showing has already achieved a major victory. California’s legislature and governor, seeking to preempt 19’s potential to legalize low-level marijuana possession for those over age 21, approved Senate Bill 1449 to reduce possession of less than one ounce of marijuana to a mere civil infraction carrying a fine of up to $100 for all ages. My investigation of fine schedules suggest that’s roughly…
Blog Oct 12, 2010
The Importance of an IBTM
DJF has begun to implement some cognitive-behavioral evidence-based treatment programs in their facilities. These model programs include Aggression Replacement Training (ART) and CounterPoint. Both programs are designed in a similar format with the goal of skill acquisition: first the facilitators teach and model relevant skills, then the youths role-play these skills, and eventually the youths are required to practice the skills in their natural setting. The aim is that youths internalize…
Blog Oct 5, 2010
That Bird Has My Wings
A cautionary tale for kids in danger of following the same path, this book is also meant to inspire government officials and social service professionals who are truly in a position to fix our broken system.
On September 14, 2010, CJCJ staff visited the O.H. Close and N.A. Chaderjian Youth Correctional Facilities operated by CDCR’s Division of Juvenile Facilities. Our party of six was accompanied through the facilities by over fifteen DJF staff members comprising all levels of DJF personnel. This presented us with a unique opportunity to examine DJF’s progress in providing rehabilitative treatment and care at various levels of the institutional system. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity…