Career Spotlight - Making A Difference Through Juvenile Justice

by Mike Churchill

As early as the 1800s, there have been juvenile justice programs in progressive states such as New York (NY). Criminal justice training that typically focused on adults was altered to accommodate children when a slow, but steady rise in illegal juvenile activity was noted. Over time, NY and other states began to realize that child and teen crime wasn't a trend or a single, passing event. In response, juvenile justice systems were refined to meet the demands of this new segment of offenders.

While there are many reasons behind child criminal behavior, the results are usually similar: damaged or unstable living conditions. If seeing children in trouble is bothersome to you and if you have a heart to make a difference, you might consider training through a criminal justice program.

According to the NY Department of Juvenile Justice (http://www.nyc.gov/html/djj/pdf/admi_detention.pdf), in fiscal year 2005-2006, over 5,000 new admissions to the juvenile justice system alone were recorded in the state of NY. Those with criminal justice training have helped the overwhelmingly male population (82%) with its primary goals: To detain "persons in need of supervision" and to intercede on behalf of children suffering from neglect and abuse. Statewide in NY or locally in cities such as Long Island, criminal justice program graduates work to protect, educate, defend and supervise offenders between the ages of nine and seventeen.

Continuing with our example of Long Island, criminal justice program graduates might find themselves with opportunities in the following areas: (Please note, in many states, including NY, additional criminal justice training may be required for some positions.)

Supervise Youth Offenders - Whether in Federal Court detention rooms, in transit to appointments or in other secure settings, correctional officers are responsible for supervising youth offenders. By taking charge of environments and maintaining control, you may be able to pursue a position to ensure the safety of those in custody.

Transport Juveniles In Custody - Incarcerated juveniles often require transportation to court appointments, medical appointments and other locations for various reasons. You may choose a career path that allows the opportunity to securely transport juveniles then return them to the corrections facility.

Provide Education - Detainees in NY are required to attend school. Criminal justice training may play a vital role in refining the skills of teachers and other educators so they can effectively offer a traditional middle or high school curriculum in a juvenile justice environment.

Protect Children and Youth - Serving as a Youth Services Representative, criminal justice program graduates can pursue careers interceding for children in a variety of situations.

Children are fragile. They can easily fall into the wrong crowd and be swayed to commit behaviors they normally wouldn't. In addition, the use of drugs compounds the behavior making children and teens even more vulnerable. The U.S. Census Bureau, Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2007 Data Book cites slight decreases in juvenile violent crime over the past 24 years, but a sharp increase in drug abuse-related crimes. Clearly, the work of those with criminal justice training is still needed.

Do you want to help prevent children and teens from taking the wrong paths? Are you enthusiastic about rehabilitating youth offenders so they can change their lives for the better? You might find a criminal justice career rewarding. Dedicated professionals that care are in demand across the nation to help our kids.

Mike Churchill offers online marketing support for Katharine Gibbs School near Long Island. Applications for their criminal justice program are now being accepted. Get details at http://www.gibbsmelville.edu. © 2007, All Rights Reserved