Camden Youth Court

Need:  The Village of Camden saw a major jump in crime from 2003 to 2004.  Some of the more alarming statistics were a 33% increase in property crimes, a 38% increase in burglary and 31% increase in larceny.  We see a definite need for a youth court program in that community, especially as many of these offenses involve youth.  Juvenile Delinquency has been a major issue in the Camden area.  This concern led to the collaboration of the Camden School District, faith-based community and Oneida County Youth Bureau in an effort to curb delinquency and provide after-school programs.  Camden Youth Court remains an effective alternative for many juvenile crimes and is strongly endorsed by the police department, elected officials, school district and town justices.

News:  Camden’s Class of 2005 included several dedicated Youth Court members. Hence, the Director spent much of July/August contacting school officials regarding potential student volunteers. The Director secured a commitment from three committed Camden students to undergo training. Thus far, they have excelled in our youth court training in Rome. Training includes over 25 hours of speakers and mock trials, ensuring our volunteers know the ins and outs of the criminal justice system and can properly function within a courtroom atmosphere. Several of our volunteers joined us for the 2005 Rome Honor America Days Parade on July 30, as we marched to publicize Oneida County Youth Court. On July 14th, we heard two more cases, before delaying any more summer cases due to graduation and vacation (both leading to fewer volunteers). To date, we have heard 13 cases, dispensing 274 hours of community service, 21 jury sentences, 9 letters of apology, 6 jail tours and 1 mediation.

Oneida County Youth Court
321 Main Street
Utica, New York  13501
(315) 798-5914

© 2005 Oneida County, New York, USA