Juvenile Citation Program
The Juvenile Citation Program is an alternative program for first-time youth offenders who commit a misdemeanor, petty misdemeanor, or status offense listed on the Juvenile Class III Citation. These offenses include: graffiti, shoplifting (under $250), disorderly conduct, truancy, possession of alcohol, trespassing, public affray, battery, assault, runaway, concealing identification, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana (under 8 oz.), and criminal damage (under $1,000). These citations are issued by law enforcement and sent to the Juvenile Probation and Parole Office (JPPO). From here, referrals are made to the JCP when it is determined that the youth is a first-time offender.
The primary roles of the program are to provide youth an immediate consequence to their offense and to divert them from the formal juvenile justice system. This 25-hour program consists of two components. The first component is education. Youth and parents must complete 5 hours of education with the goal being to strengthen families and help build self-esteem and character. The second component is community service. All youth are required to complete a total of 12 hours of community service. There is an additional 8-hour mandated portion, which allows participants the option of completing an additional community service or educational component.
Overall, the program will touch on topics such as anger management, life skills, substance use, and resources allocation to empower youth to make better life choices
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