This petition could have real impact in making life better for at risk youth. Please review and sign; http://www.examiner.com/article/urgent-action-needed-congress-must-protect-children-the-justice-system?cid=db_articles
WASHINGTON, DC (March 13, 2013) – The National Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention Coalition (NJJDPC) released its report and recommendations, “Promoting Safe Communities,” to congress.
In the 22-page report the organization is calling on congress to support effective systems of justice for our youth by focusing on the following five areas:
- Restore federal leadership in the Juvenile Justice Policy – Recommendations include federal leadership be restored and for congress to provide the clear direction and resources needed to facilitate beneficial reforms.
- Support and prioritize prevention, early intervention and diversion strategies – Studies show that taxpayers prefer to sponsor programs that promote prevention, education and rehabilitation over prosecution and incarceration.
- Ensure safety and fairness for court-involved youth and remove youth from the adult criminal system – The Bureau of Statistics reported that 1-in-8 juveniles detained in a facility has experienced abuse including: sexual assault by staff, hog-tying, shackling, isolation and pepper spray. The report says that accountability, “regardless of the offense,” should not include abuse, mental health deterioration or death while youth in a juvenile facility, adult jail or prison.
- Support youth reentry – An estimated 100,000 people under the age of 18 have left secure facilities only to turn around and reenter the system. The report says, “Youth are often discharged from care back to families struggling with domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and unresolved mental health disabilities.” Also highlighted is the issue of public safety being compromised when the released youth is not afforded necessary planning and supportive services.
NJJDCP”s full report and recommendations can be viewed at:http://promotesafecommunities.org/images/pdfs/NJJDPC_RecstoCongress_03122013_web.pdf?utm_source=Copy+of+NJJDP+Report+-Congress&utm_campaign=WNR+2-8-2013&utm_medium=email
