What is the primary purpose of DJJ?

The primary purpose of the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is to provide treatment and services for youthful offenders. This focus is rooted in the understanding that juveniles have different needs than adults, and the objective of the juvenile justice system is not solely punitive but rehabilitative. The emphasis is on helping young individuals learn from their mistakes, develop skills, and reintegrate into society successfully.

By providing treatment, therapy, educational opportunities, and other supportive services, DJJ aims to address the underlying issues that may have contributed to the juvenile's behavior. This approach recognizes that effective rehabilitation can lead to lower recidivism rates and encourage positive life choices among youth.

In contrast, while enforcing juvenile laws, conducting juvenile trials, and overseeing juvenile detention centers are important functions within the broader juvenile justice system, they do not align with the primary mission of DJJ. The main goal is to focus on the rehabilitation and support of youthful offenders to promote their successful future.