NCJ Number
149542
Date Published
1993
Length
45 pages
Annotation
This report proposes and drafts legislation concerning juvenile crime and juvenile services.
Abstract
Since research has established a significant link between sexual violence and aggression, the report proposes to prohibit the commercial distribution of sadistic videos to minors. To enhance school safety, parents and other adults should be prohibited from letting children possess firearms on school property. Another proposed bill would require witnesses who know of harm to children (e.g., child abuse) to notify law enforcement authorities. In addition, the role of the guardian ad litem should be strengthened. The report also suggests a pilot program to study an extension of juvenile court jurisdiction for juveniles between ages 16 and 18 years who cannot be controlled by their parents. Parents who want to restrain their juveniles' antisocial behavior should also be given pro se representation in court. For increased community protection, the report proposes strict liability for damage by minors up to $1,000, juvenile transfers to Superior Courts for Class B or C felonies, and making juvenile law enforcement records available to sentencing judges. Last, training schools should be added to the commitment options for short-term institutionalization.