49 adults still wanted on juvenile charges

YOUNGSTOWN — Becoming an adult at 18 doesn’t mean cases you had pending at juvenile court disappeared with your childhood.

Warrants for 49 adults wanted by Mahoning County Juvenile Court are in the hands of city police working truancy and curfew details. Except for a 33-year-old woman charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor, the remaining 48 fugitives range in age from 18 to 20 and were juveniles when the alleged crimes were committed.

“We know some are hiding from us but others may not know they’re wanted,” said Detective Sgt. Mike Lambert. “The perception is once you turn 18 you’re done with juvenile court.”

Lambert said those on the list can call the court at (330) 740-2261 and arrange to turn themselves in. “Some will, some won’t surrender,” he said.

While making rounds this past week looking for juvenile court fugitives, Lambert spread the word that The Vindicator would be publishing a list of 50 names. He called Friday to say that one young man, who learned about the list, turned himself in that day to avoid having his name in the newspaper.

Lambert said most of the fugitives are from Youngstown but checks at their last known addresses proved futile. Many of the houses, he said, are now vacant.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the fugitives being sought is asked to call Lambert at (330) 233-7716.

Lambert is head of the gang unit attached to the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force. His unit is participating in truancy and curfew details that Juvenile Judge Theresa Dellick has said are a collaborative effort between police, the schools, the court and county Children Services Board.