Juvenile Justice Matters  

Vasser College Psychology Professor, Abigail Baird has researched juvenile brain development for many years. Be sure to tune in for this incredible show.

Beginning January 2010, 17-year-olds charged with misdemeanor offenses will no longer be tried in adult court but instead will be tried in juvenile court with access to rehabilitative services, according to recently enacted legislation. Illinois will join 38 other states and the District of Columbia that consider 18 as the age of adult jurisdiction for misdemeanors. Senate Bill 2275, which the Governor signed in to law on February 10, 2009 does not change the age for felonies, but it does create a task force to examine issues surrounding raising adult jurisdiction for felonies from age 17 to age 18. Betsy Clarke, President of the Juvenile Justice Initiative in Illinois will be our guest to discuss this victory.

Abby Anderson, Executive Director of the Connecticut Juvenile Justice Alliance will join us to discuss the “Raise the Age” legislative success and plans for implementation. She’ll focus on why it’s important to follow through with the changes now, even though economic times are tough.