Bexar County Juvenile Probation reports rise in juvenile referrals for 2023

The Bexar County Juvenile Probation report indicates a 40% surge in juvenile referrals for non-violent felonies in the past year.

Bexar County Juvenile Probation has released a new report indicating a rise in crimes committed by children.

In comparison to 2022, juvenile referrals for non-violent felonies rose by 40% last year. Offenses like gun possession, vehicle theft, arson, and drug-related charges. Concurrently, both violent felonies (e.g., murder and aggravated robbery) and misdemeanor charges (including mischief and theft) show a 12% increase.

Judge William Shaw, expressing concern for children, noted an unfortunate trend among those aged 10 to 17, with a small group repeatedly engaging in the same criminal activities.

In the KEN 5 report, Shaw identified various factors contributing to these statistics, including children committing crimes for online validation and attention.

Addressing the issue, Shaw emphasized the importance of genuine conversations with offenders and their families, emphasizing the reality of their actions beyond social media.

While victim impact statements may aid in fostering remorse, Shaw acknowledged that some offenders show none.

He stressed the importance of conveying the potential consequences, including imprisonment, if such behavior persists. Shaw praised probation as a valuable resource, regretting that juveniles often need to be arrested to access these services at the Juvenile Detention Center.

Shaw underscored community involvement, urging schools, churches, families, and neighborhoods to be proactive in understanding children’s habits and intervening from an early age. He advocated for after-school activities and educational engagement, especially for children who may not prioritize education.

The Bexar County Juvenile Probation report highlighted the positive impact of a new Texas law, House Bill 3186, allowing minors charged with Class C misdemeanors to enter a diversion program rather than facing court for offenses like petty theft and alcohol possession.

Camille Quinn, an associate professor at the University of Michigan, praised this approach, offering individuals an opportunity to participate in programs that provide skills and trades.

Presently, approximately 120 children are in the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center, with detention durations of up to 10 days based on the severity of the crime and the risk to the community. For severe offenses such as murder or aggravated assault, children can be certified as adults, subject to stringent consequences.

Source: https://www.kens5.com/article/news/crime/crimes-committed-children-climb-bexar-county/273-50716af1-5634-4aa5-aed6-3d240dd51e11