An Alabama lawmaker is addressing new legislation aimed at reducing crime among the state’s youth.
Sponsored by Rep. Reed Ingram (R-Pike Road), House Bill 33 aims to address nonviolent offenses committed by juveniles. Under this proposed legislation, it would be mandatory for these offenders to undergo detention and participate in an intervention class, along with their guardian.
According to Ingram, the bill can be likened to Scared Straight, but with a milder approach. He emphasizes the significance of providing assistance to juveniles before they engage in more serious criminal activities.
According to Ingram, their main goal was to provide assistance to the victims and combat crime in their state. Additionally, they wanted to address the attrition within the corrections system.
Law enforcement would be obligated to reach out to a juvenile probation officer, as stipulated by the bill.
Coosada Police Chief Leon Smith, however, has expressed his disagreement with certain key aspects of the bill’s guidelines.
Smith disagreed with the practice of placing children in detention facilities for nonviolent offenses. He emphasized the importance of understanding the diverse backgrounds from which these children come and suggested a need for greater involvement with their parents.
Chief Smith acknowledges the potential benefits of the legislation after witnessing repeated offenses.
According to Smith, the aim is to empower parents to fulfill their role and guide their children, while also providing the juveniles with a chance to redirect their lives. He emphasizes the need for action rather than mere words, suggesting that placing them in a detention facility can be an effective measure.
“I believe in the importance of rehabilitating individuals before they become involved in criminal activities. It is our duty to society,” Ingram emphasized. “Many parents are working tirelessly with one or even two jobs, leaving them with little time to spend with their children. Unfortunately, some parents fail to prioritize quality time with their kids.”
The Department of Youth Services stated that they were aware of the bill, but they were not consulted on its details before it was filed.
