1. Juvenile Crime *pgs
Essential Question: What is juvenile crime and how does the system handle it?

2. Defining Juvenile Crime
Juvenile- person under the age of 18, or in some states, 16
Delinquents- juveniles who are found guilty of breaking the law
Arson and larceny are the most frequently committed juvenile crimes

3. Causes of Juvenile Crime
Poor Home Conditions
Poor Neighborhood
Gang Membership
Dropping Out of School and Unemployment
Alcohol and Drugs
Peer Pressure

4. Juvenile Justice System
Reform
Juvenile courts systems were established
Purpose was to remove children from harmful environments
Juvenile offenders have the same due process rights as adults

5. Juvenile Justice System
Today’s Juvenile Justice System
Juvenile’s do not have the right to a jury trial
They have hearings
The only people allowed to attend are parents/guardians and those directly involved in the case
The judge decides guilt or innocence

6. Juvenile Justice System
Treatment or Punishment
Foster Care- for more adequate adult supervision
Juvenile Corrections- prisons for minors
Probation- period of time during which offenders are given an opportunity to show that they can reform (while living in society)
Counseling
Treating Juveniles as Adults- usually happens to felons 14+ yrs old

7. Avoiding Trouble Don’t use drugs Stay in school
Say “no” to peer pressure
Try to live a full life- if a juvenile is busy with positive things, they are less likely to turn to crime