However, law enforcement officials have also recognized that they need to also be part of prevention efforts. Early intervention and after-school programs are proving to be the most successful approaches to violence prevention. Teachers are inundated with demands, including the need to identify and intervene in the lives of at-risk youths. More training may help. Links between law enforcement and other bodies involved with youths is critical.
Information sharing is one of the most important tools.
Summary of Discussion There must be communication, including formal protocols, among agencies involved with youth violence. This includes police, courts, parents, youths, schools, programs, and religious and community groups. Often, confidentiality laws prevent this. Such obstacles should be lifted whenever possible. Illinois recently rewrote its juvenile justice statute.