Juvenile Crime Control

Serious offenses like robbery, rape, or murder are committed by only a tiny fraction of youth, but these cases command startling media attention when they do occur. The community seems particularly damaged when a young person is involved in a henious crime. What can be done with these offenders? And what can be done to reduce the chances that other young people might commit such offenses?

Youth violence prevention programs intervene with young people who might be headed for involvement in gangs, in substance abuse, or in abusive relationships. Anti-violence programs can range from home nurse visits that guide families away from domestic violence, to family resource centers that give failing teens a chance to develop better personal relationships and useful job skills. Sometimes, a long-term mentor is all that a directionless youth needs to find positive values in life.

For current legislation concerning youth violence reduction, see FCL's bill status summary.

For examples of local and statewide projects to reduce youth offenses in California, see the FCL Education Fund's Inventory of Violence Prevention Programs

For additional information, see the sources consulted by the League of Women Voters in preparing their report on juvenile justice issues.