Although youth crime has been going down, it's still a problem for many states; particularly in poor neighborhoods. Juvenile delinquency, or juvenile offenses, are just as prevalent and dangerous as adult-related crimes. If not properly handled, teens would not be able to enjoy a bright future.
Types of Juvenile Crime
Juvenile delinquency are illegal behaviors committed by minors or individuals younger than what has been deemed as the legal age. In most states like Florida, this is eighteen years old. Youth crime can range from something as simple as skipping school (also known as truancy), and even drastic acts of violence such as murder.
Status Offenses
These are violations against the law due to age. Considered as minor offenses, these are based on status because it can be legal for the majority, while being prohibited for minors. Acts like under-age drinking, running away, missing classes, and violating curfew are a few examples. It's usually females who are arrested for these charges.
Property Offenses
These crimes involve destruction or possession of another person's property. Larceny, theft, arson, and burglary fall under this category. More than 60% of these crimes were done by male delinquents under the age of eighteen.
Violent Offenses
This type of youth crime is serious and in some cases, may be tried in adult court. Such examples would be murder, rape, and aggravated assault. Most of these acts were committed in the afternoon, right after school. Male minors still make up a big part of violent crime arrests.
Factors Affecting Juvenile Delinquency
There are individual and family/community risk factors that could influence a teen into breaking the law. Most of the time, it's peer pressure and innate aggressive tendencies. With the prevalence of drugs and other illegal substances, minors have easy access to them through friends and social events. However, it cannot be discounted that there are also kids who display hostility even at a young age. This could be due to genetics or certain psychological conditions.
Family and community create a huge impact on the lives of teens as early as in their childhood. Things like poverty and maltreatment can influence minors into committing crime. Parents for instance, play a big role in the lives of their children. If they cannot prevent violence in their own homes, this might cause their kids to experience internal and social problems; eventually leading to delinquency.
Legal Intervention
Most juvenile crimes, especially status offenses, are tried in juvenile courts. The offender, although still a minor, must have legal representation through a Criminal Defense attorney. Based on their crime, they could be transferred to adult court using a direct file, judiciary waiver, and other methods. If tried as 'neglected' or 'dependent', then they might be handed over to social welfare programs or a suitable guardian.
With a skilled and dependable defense lawyer, minors' rights can still be preserved. Sometimes they are simply too young to understand the wrong in their ways; and it is up to adults to be compassionate and understanding. Through the assistance of experienced legal aids, teens can still grow up to be healthy, responsible adults.
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