Juvenile Justice – Local Diversion Programs and Strategies at #MACoCon

Evidence-based prevention and diversion strategies are vital to reducing the rate at which juvenile offenders are committing crimes. 

Juvenile justice protocols have changed over the last two years in Maryland with the implementation of two new laws passed in 2022 – SB 53 and SB 691. Concurrently, the nature of the crimes and rates at which youth offenders are committing them has also evolved. Prevention programs and youth diversion strategies for at-risk youth are a best practice for helping children avoid criminality, and are the cornerstones that the 2022 legislation needs to be able to stand on. In this 2023 MACo Winter Conference session, human service and public safety experts will come together with one of the architects of the legislation to discuss how local programs can further progress.

  • Title: Juvenile Justice, Pt 2: The Kids Aren’t All Right – Local Diversion Programs and Strategies
  • Description: New legislation has changed the way juvenile offenders are held accountable for crimes in Maryland. Diversion programs are evidence-based strategies that help troubled youth address the root causes of rebellious behavior rather than criminalizing their actions. With now limited judicial options for reinforcing accountability for some youth, bolstering diversion and support programs is even more vital. In this “part 2” panel exploring juvenile justice issues, experts will discuss existing programs, how they are responding to increased demand, and what policymakers can do to help.
  • Speakers:
    • Laurie Plutschak – Caroline County, Teen Court Coordinator
    • Stephanie Hinson – Anne Arundel County Police Department
    • Major Sara Schriver – Anne Arundel County Police Department
    • Orethea Y. Mattison – Director, Prince George’s County Local Management Board
  • Moderator: The Honorable Senator Jill Carter
  • Date/Time: Wednesday, December 6, 2023; 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Learn more about MACo’s Winter Conference: