Mahoning Co. teen court teaches responsibility, conflict resolution

YOUNGSTOWN — A new teen court makes youthful offenders accountable to their peers and offers all participants a hands-on learning experience concerning the justice system.

The program, designed for first-time juvenile misdemeanor and status offenders, was launched last month at the Mahoning County Juvenile Court in the Martin P. Joyce Juvenile Justice Center on East Scott Street.

Ten other Ohio counties have teen courts.

It serves as a peer-sentencing court for cases such as shoplifting, disorderly conduct, harassment, truancy and fighting.

The court teaches participants about the law, the consequences of lawbreaking, conflict resolution, problem solving, and how the court procedure ensures due process.

“It’s a wonderful way for our youth to learn great skills in advocating, in public speaking, and in dealing with our own judicial system,” said Judge Theresa Dellick of juvenile court. “The juveniles who are involved in youth court who come before the teen court panel are less likely to re-offend.”

For the complete story, see Wednesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com