Person is considered an adult at the age of 18
In most jurisdictions, a person is considered an adult at the age of 18. As such, many juveniles who commit serious crimes are simply released to a parent or guardian without any repercussions.
Explain the reason, nature, and extent of increased youth crime and violence. What means are being used by law enforcement to prevent and deter delinquent behavior and youth crime and violence? What obstacles are officers facing in their efforts to fight said crime and violence?
Recommend changes in the criminal justice system that you feel would be effective in not only matching the punishment to the crime, but also reducing the amount of crime being perpetrated by the youth overall.
In response to this worrying trend law enforcement has employed a variety of measures in order to try and prevent and deter delinquent behavior amongst young people. These include increases in police presence within communities particularly those known for high levels of youth related crime or anti-social behaviour; greater use of technology such as CCTV cameras; stronger working relationships with schools; implementing early intervention programs targeting at risk families before offences occur; increasing awareness about the potential consequences associated with criminal activities through outreach initiatives etc.
Despite these efforts some challenges still remain for officers when attempting to reduce juvenile crime rates including limited resources available due to budget restraints making implementation of successful strategies difficult; lack of community trust leading to a distrust between residents and police forces preventing effective collaboration; difficulty engaging certain segments within society who may be disconnected from mainstream services due changing trends in culture or language preference ; pressure from local politicians concerned over public perception resulting into leniency towards offenders regardless severity offence .
In order to combat these issues I recommend a holistic approach towards reducing youth crime which focuses not only on punishment but also prevention through better education , training , support services , improved access mental healthcare particularly those suffering PTSD stemming from disadvantaged backgrounds along with safeguarding measures ensuring vulnerable groups don’t slip through cracks .This would need see investment both financially governmental level enhanced engagement state agencies voluntary organisations tackling problem head providing resources where necessary . Furthermore laws surrounding sentencing minors should reformed reflect gravity offence committed taking individual cases into account offering chance redemption rather than harsh prison sentences other forms detention might appropriate cases depending upon circumstances . Encouraging participation civic duties part rehabilitative process valuable way instilling sense belonging helping develop empathy amongst offender’s peers possible could positively impact their behaviour future .