In New York, children dumped into the adult system learn the brutal rhythms of prison life from career criminals, only to pose the greatest potential threat to their neighbors when they go home. Absurdly, these are the very youth who receive the least amount of help reintegrating into society. They are not eligible for Aftercare, the intensive follow-up services offered to children who go through the juvenile justice system, which has been proven to lower rearrest rates. The Center for an Urban Future's juvenile justice policy proposals are informed by a few strong values and principles. The criminal justice system's historic separation of juveniles and adults must be maintained and strengthened.
Public safety is a top priority.
Children who commit crimes, both nonviolent and violent, must be held accountable for their actions. Communities deserve a voice and a clearly defined role in the juvenile justice system and have a responsibility to participate in the rehabilitation of children who get in trouble with the law. They are the city's future. A Five-Point Plan to Redirect New York City's Juvenile Justice System 1. Create Community Courts for nonviolent youth offenses.