Miami-Dade County Juvenile Weapons Offenders Program (JWOP): a potential model to reduce firearm crime recidivism nationwide

This research report provides an overview of and recidivism rates for a unique multidisciplinary intervention program for youth charged with weapons offenses (GATE/JWOP Program). The report discusses the study methods, 6- and 12-month recidivism rates for the studied cohort, and potential for expansion of the program to applicable state and national jurisdictions. 

From the Discussion of the Report: 

“Why is the JWOP program arguably more effective in preventing recidivism than myriad other well-supported and structured programs? As compared with more traditional ‘bootcamp’ or ‘scared straight’ programs, our method of rehabilitation and delivery of educational content is focused on skill development, decision-making and introspection. Program directors, peer mentors and instructors tailor the classes to each group of clients to understand their backgrounds and teach in a way that reflects this culture. The program adapts to the needs of the boys which changes from week to week and individual to individual. A meta-analysis of juvenile rehabilitative programs noted that there was no significant correlation between the level of supervision/surveillance and reduced recidivism, and in fact drew a negative association between increased discipline and recidivism.”