What can help reduce the number of youth inappropriately placed in the juvenile justice system?

Enhancing prevention and diversion services is vital in reducing the number of youth who are inappropriately placed in the juvenile justice system. This approach focuses on addressing the root causes of juvenile delinquency before they escalate into circumstances that necessitate legal intervention. Prevention services often include community outreach, educational programs, mentoring, and family support, which aim to equip youth with the skills and resources they need to make positive choices.

Diversion services provide alternatives to formal judicial proceedings, allowing young people to address their behavior through restorative practices, community service, or counseling rather than incarceration. By engaging youth in supportive and constructive programs, the system can focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, which is aligned with the best practices in juvenile justice. This not only helps in keeping youth out of the system but also fosters a healthier community environment, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.