Because the crime rate for those under the age of 17 had nearly doubled in a five year period, the General Assembly authorized a new program to deal with juvenile offenders. Camp Stop, a military-style boot camp, was opened in Milledgeville. Its purpose was to give young offenders a wake-up call and steer them away from a life of crime. Judges could order non-violent offenders to spend up to 90 days in the camp. Sgt Major Richard Hurt believes boot camp can make a positive difference in kids' lives.