DC’s Young Men Emerging Unit: A Story Reform and Lessons Learned from the Front Lines

From the introduction:

“This paper shares the story behind the successful launch of a specialized correctional unit for emerging adults by three of the people closest and most integral to the experience. It is offered as a guide for jurisdictions that are interested in developing similar programs. It is important to note that this report is not intended to justify the increased incarceration of emerging adults or those under 18 years of age, nor to supplant effective community-based alternatives to system involvement. There are too many young people locked away for too long, particularly young people of color. This paper is focused on providing useful information to encourage the creation of developmentally-appropriate, effective, and humane treatment for incarcerated emerging adults in the limited circumstances when no other alternatives are deemed possible.”