Ohio Juvenile Justice Working Group Recommends Changes

Recommendations for Change

Raise the age of juvenile court jurisdiction

The group recommends raising the age of juvenile court jurisdiction from 18 to 21. This would mean that 18-20 year olds would be tried in adult court for all offenses, not just serious ones.

Expand access to diversion programs

The group also recommends expanding access to diversion programs, which allow young people to avoid the formal juvenile justice system if they complete certain requirements, such as counseling or community service.

Increase funding for community-based programs

The group recommends increasing funding for community-based programs that provide support to at-risk youth, such as mentoring, after-school programs, and job training.

Other recommendations

• Increase the use of restorative justice practices
• Reduce the use of secure confinement
• Improve data collection and reporting

Why These Changes Are Needed

The current system is not working

The group found that the current juvenile justice system is not working. Too many young people are being arrested and detained, and too many are being sentenced to adult prison.

These changes would make the system more fair and effective

The group believes that the recommended changes would make the juvenile justice system more fair and effective. They would keep more young people out of the criminal justice system, and they would provide them with the support they need to succeed.

Next Steps

The group's recommendations are now being considered by the Ohio legislature. It is unclear when or if the legislature will take action on the recommendations.