BOSTON (WWLP) – A Senate committee in charge of bills relating to the justice system invited experts to speak at the State House on Wednesday about ways to improve juvenile justice.
These experts are recommending bills that support diversion programs, sending juvenile offenders to counseling, community service, or restorative justice for non-violent offenses. Such programs statistically reduce recidivism and future burden on the adult justice system.
“Arrest and system involvement leads to increased likelihood of dropout and increased likelihood of further system involvement, whereas conversely, diversion leads to less recidivism and overall better outcomes,” said Leon Smith, Executive Director of Citizens for Juvenile Justice…