MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – At least 30 people ages 19 and younger are currently behind bars at Metro Jail in Mobile County, according to the Mobile County Jail log. At least 20 face violent crime charges, including murder, robbery, assault, and domestic violence. At least five are charged with murder.
Mobile Police Sergeant John Young, who leads Men United Against Violence, said the numbers are alarming — but not surprising.
‘Your children are your responsibility’
Men United Against Violence runs youth programs aimed at preventing crime before it starts. Young said when young people lack positive guidance, structure, and productive activities, many turn to the streets for direction.
“Men United Against Violence’s summer campaign is ‘Your children are your responsibility,’ meaning the foundation comes from home,” Young said. “Now if you have an ignorant parent who doesn’t value education, then that is spread to that child.”…