Well, I can tell you what happened to me from my experience. I was shipped out to group homes when I was 12 because i was uncontrollable. My brother and sister stayed at the home because they were not the problem. I had anger issues, but mine stemmed from physical and sexual abuse.
I was in group homes until I was 18 years old. I learned, while in them, that it was not ok to hit people, steal, lie or be disrespectful.
I am not saying that your son will have the same experience, but I have to say that now I am thankful my parents did what they had to do. At the time I was very angry and felt like they did not want me, but I know now that was not the case. They sent me away to get help because they couldn't do it on their own. I still got to go home for visits so I didn't miss out on too much.
I graduated from High School and have been a productive member of society since then.
I think you should try counseling first. I mean, it didn't work for me in the beginning, but he is a different person and may get something out of it.

Good Luck,
BJ