We encounter kids bragging about getting four MIPs with no consequences. And the kids know it, came the cry from the specialists around the table. If zero tolerance were more than hot air in a windsock, we would impound the cars they drive until they met the diversion terms. Mom and dad would pay attention, too, especially if the car was theirs. But alas, the task force approach is more sober.
Young drinkers can become old drunks, the group agrees.
The task force probably also needs to identify the MIP behavior that best predicts continuing risk to the youths and society. Then consequences appropriate to the risk can be targeted and intensified, says Jim Peterson, director of Mainstream. Multnomah and Clackamas counties refer youths charged with drug and alcohol violations to this agency for assessment, education and treatment diversion services. Better choices than ending up in a hospital or on a mortuary slab. Robert Landauer is editorial columnist of The Oregonian.