The organization makes a case that civil citations are a desirable alternative to harsher punishments in juvenile cases. With civil citations, juveniles involved in minor offenses complete a community service program; the offense doesn’t stay on their record.
The rate of recidivism (likelihood that a criminal will return to criminal behavior) where juveniles were punished by civil citations is about 4 percent. This compares starkly to 13 percent for those arrested, and 41 percent for those interred in detention centers. Juveniles punished by civil citation are currently three times less likely to repeat criminal behavior than those who were arrested.
Also worth noting is that civil citations cost our government about $385, compared to approximately $5,000 for processing a minor through the juvenile court system.
Aside from expanding the civil citation program, BOLD Justice looks to improve its community in many ways. The grassroots band of religious congregations also seeks better living options for senior citizens. The organization also hopes to provide police departments with training to more effectively deal with people who have mental health issues in the field.
For more information or to get involved, call (954) 463-2322.
