Who could disagree with Judge Ellerbee's comments that increased parental responsibility is central to addressing Georgia's juvenile justice problems? There is no question that many of the issues confronting today's youth could be dealt with best by loving and supporting families without the need for governmental involvement. Unfortunately, that is not the reality with which we are so often faced these days.
The Special Council on Criminal Justice Reform was tasked with conducting a detailed analysis of the juvenile justice system and soliciting input from a wide variety of stakeholders. The council was comprised of not only legislators, but also law enforcement personnel, prosecutors and judges, including one sitting juvenile court judge, among others.
After studying the issues, the council attempted to present policy options to the legislature that we believe will hold juvenile offenders accountable, increase public safety and reduce juvenile justice costs. Addressing Georgia's high juvenile recidivist rates was a paramount concern, as was expanding sentencing options for juvenile court judges.
Rather than costing money, we anticipate that implementation of our recommendations will save the state approximately $88 million. Importantly, this savings is achieved not by transferring the state's financial burden onto local governments as suggested, but by providing local courts with more evidence-based options that are proven to reduce recidivism. Moreover, we recommended that a portion of the savings be reinvested to make sure that such programs are expanded to become equally available to courts throughout the state.
Each of the council members was keenly aware that today's troubled youth often begin their journey through the criminal justice system in juvenile court. We anticipate the reforms we have recommended will have a positive impact not just in financial savings but also in increased public safety and transformed lives.
Our proposals are certainly not a panacea for all that ails juveniles and are not intended as a substitute for good parenting. Nevertheless, they are good policy and will make Georgia a safer place for less money.
Todd Markle, Judge, Superior Court of Fulton County
Todd Markle, Judge, Superior Court of Fulton County
