MISSION STATEMENT:
We are the Advocacy 4 Juvenile Justice Group. Our goal is to reform the current harmful practices that unjustly affect youth within the juvenile justice system. We recognize the detrimental effects that imprisonment has on youth and through our work, we hope to stop the adjudication of youth to adult prisons. We believe that those 18 and under deserve the opportunity to learn and grow through interventions that support their development instead of imprisonment.
WHY REFORM SB 1391?
This bill prevents children younger than 16 from being charged and adjudicated to adult prisons. This reform aligns with current research on youth development.
The current practice of holding youth between 16 to 18 in adult prisons does not reduce crime or provide them the opportunity to rehabilitate, robbing youth of their future.
Current evidence-based research shows that youth are amenable when given the appropriate support and tools. Sending youth to adult prisons does not provide an opportunity for rehabilitation, instead it places them at risk for increased trauma and delinquent behaviors (Cavanagh, 2022).
Black and Latino youth are disproportionately represented, making up 80% of youth in adult prisons.
34% are more likely to return to prison due to violent crimes
Youth are exposed to violence and are 20% more likely to experience sexual assault
NEWS & RESOURCES
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Senator Hurtado is currently representing Senate District 14. She is attempting to represent Senate District 16. She has the power to introduce legislation to make a change in the lives of our youth.
CONTACT MELISSA HURTADO TO MAKE A CHANGE!
2550 Mariposa Mall, Suite 2016
Fresno, CA 93721
(916) 651-4014