MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) – Two Indiana counties are seeking alternatives to juvenile detention through a program that aims to improve the outcomes for young offenders.

The Star Press reports Delaware Circuit Court 2 Judge Kimberly Dowling and Henry Circuit Court 1 Judge Mary Willis have submitted applications to have their counties join the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative.

The program started in Marion County in 2006 and now includes eight counties. Statistics show that the average juvenile daily population in a secure facility in participating counties fell more than 40 percent, while admissions dropped by 44 percent.

JDAI coordinator Michelle Tennell says it's critical to provide the most appropriate options for children in the justice system.

The counties will learn next month whether they've been chosen for the program.