Based on preliminary data (subject to revision) the over fifteen-year  decline in the number of juveniles arrested in Wisconsin continued to decline in 2011, although the “pace” of that decline slowed a bit and was less universal.  The number of youth (note: this includes 17-year olds who are still reported as juveniles for purposes of arrest data) arrested has declined from over 129,000 in 2000 to under 72,000 in 2011.

The net decline from 2010 to 2011 was around 4.7%, but in 22 counties, there was an increase in the number of youth arrested – in some cases a very slight increase and oddly in some counties a sizeable increase (mostly in smaller counties in which increased numbers result in more significant percentage changes). Eight of the ten counties with the most juvenile arrests saw a decline, while two of the ten (Dane and La Crosse) had increased arrest numbers. 

Historically, juvenile arrest numbers and rates have risen and fallen in 25-30 year cycles. With the peak of juvenile arrests occurring in roughly 1994, we are now well into that downward cycle.  Watch for more analysis as more numbers and rates become available.

By Jim Moeser