As a result of the jury’s verdict, this minor will receive the support of PESA, to help ensure he completes 20 hours of community service at an organization that works with victims of sexual assualt; writes a letter of apology; and attends individual counseling, among other recommended diversion conditions. At PESA, we have witnessed how these diversion conditions refocus a minor’s life and facilitate an understanding of their own actions, far more than time spent in a juvenile hall.
The presiding judge of this session, Judge Joe Burghardt, remarked on the impact of the student jury. “The jurors in this trial, as in all Teen Court trials, seemed very interested and well-prepared. They do a really good job of getting to the bottom of things, taking it seriously and trying to help [the minor on trial]. I’m really glad to be a part of Teen Court.”
The second case of the week involved a minor who had lit a paper towel on fire while on campus. Thinking he had extinguished the flame, he then accidentally set a school trash can on fire. Throughout the Teen Court session, the jury of high school students emphasized to the minor the difference between joking around and dangerous activities. It became clear that the minor had been acting out for some time, without supportive resources to redirect his behavior. The jury determined that multiple diversion services provided by PESA could support the minor in changing his behavior, through learning how his actions affect his personal life and his community.
As a result, this minor will receive the support of PESA, to ensure he completes one essay on the dangers of arson, another about his future career goals, and that he attends tutoring services, among other recommended diversion conditions.
The presiding judge of this session, Judge Lee Tsao, addressed the minor before adjournment. “You still have time to become a better student and a better son,” he said. “Plenty of time. But if you continue down this road, you’re going to fall further and further behind, and that is my concern for you. We all want you to succeed. The time is now, to make that turnaround.” This minor has already taken the first step to successfully making that turnaround, through his willingness to participate in the diversion services provided by PESA, to help him reshape his life choices.
Both of the cases last week highlight why PESA believes it is crucial to continue empowering youth through the Teen Court process and the accompanying diversion services. We look forward to more successfully diverted youth in the upcoming sessions throughout this summer. ■
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