Unique teen court gives second chances to at-risk youth
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Getting to youth before they go down a life of crime is the goal of a unique teen court program on the city’s north side.
The teen court at Reach for Youth Inc. is focused on rehabilitating young people.
The cases are real adn the kids are referred to teen court from the juvenile court system or a school.
“These are real consequences. The teen court program is official. This is an opportunity for the youth that we see to have their record expunged,” said Chris Ponti, the diversion manager at Reach for Youth.
The kids’ attorneys, the prosecution and the jury are all made up of peers.
Only first-time, non-violent offenses can be heard in teen court. Common cases are drug possession, marijuana use, resisting arrest and theft.
The kids have already admitted guilt, and the goal of teen court is to determine the consequences.
“It’s kind of like a reality check, but it’s really great to see how we can make a difference in their lives,” said Vivian Zheng, who volunteers as an attorney.
The goal here is to change the defendant’s behavior, not to punish them.
“It’s kind of surreal,” said Mackenzie Rominger, who plays an attorney and juror. “It can definitely determine how they’re going to end up.”
“It’s a part of catching it early, it’s part of catching them when they’re starting to do less violent crimes,” said Kendee Kolp, the president and CEO of Reach for Youth.
The student volunteers receive community service hours for their participation. Some say it’s an eye-opening experience.
“I think about it and I’m like, ‘Wow, I’m glad I’m not in their shoes,’” said Raven Harvey, who plays the role of juror.
The teen court started 40 years ago and serves 3,500 teens a year. There’s also counseling involved to correct the behavior.
“To be involved in this program and really be committed to it you have to be a person that believes in redemption and second chances, and I certainly do,” said Zandria Conyers, who plays the role of judge. Conyers’ full time job is a corporate attorney for the NCAA.
Law students help the young lawyers.
The sentences are also alternative, things like writing an essay or giving a verbal apology. But the kids are also reminded of what it would be in the real world.
“It’s to try to give them some perspective that A, this is really serious, but B, the consequences are also very serious and could be in some instances life-changing,” Conyers said.
There are multiple Teen Court locations across Marion and Johnson. Volunteers opportunities are also available.
