NCJ Number
238586
Date Published
2004
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This report describes the benefits, creation, and operation of a youth accountability board (YAB), which involves recruiting, screening, and training volunteers from a designated neighborhood who will determine sanctions for low-level offenses committed by youth.
Abstract
The YAB volunteers meet with a youth who has committed an offense, together was his/her family. Direct victims are invited to participate in the meetings either in person or through a written statement. During the meeting, the youth tells his/her story and explains the circumstances that led him/her to commit the offense. The community YAB members explain the impact of the juvenile's behavior on the neighborhood. Participation by youth is voluntary, and the goals are to hold the youth accountable, repair the harm done to the direct victim and affected community, and provide the youth with the help needed to avoid further offending. Each meeting results in a contract that the youth agrees to complete within a certain time frame. Conditions may include an apology letter, restitution, community service, or educational components. This paper describes the essential elements of YABs; outlines their benefits to prosecutors, board participants, and communities; and provides practical guidance to those interested in starting a new board program. Suggestions are offered on ways to measure a YABs success, chart the evolution of YAB programs, and institutionalize YABs as an ongoing feature of juvenile justice. 8 notes