California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

As state and local leaders throughout Los Angeles County and statewide work to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus, concerns remain about how such measures could impact youth and families involved with the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. 

Soon after California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) proposed widespread reforms for the state’s Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), its director has stepped down. A press release issued this week by Newsom’s office said that Chuck Supple would leave his post immediately, as a result of health issues.

According to new analysis of state data by a Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice (CJCJ) researcher, rates of arrest for California youth and young adults declined again in 2015, continuing a steady decline over the past several decades.

There have been significant prison reform efforts in recent years in California. Reforms have addressed issues around sentencing of non-violent crimes, the trying of juveniles and greater scrutiny on the use of solitary confinement.

A few weeks ago, The Imprint began “Positive Youth Justice: Curbing Crime, Building Assets,” a series that imagines an entire continuum of juvenile justice services built on the positive youth development framework.

By Dinky Manek Enty For the more than 2.7 million children in the United States with an incarcerated parent, the holiday season brings a poignant mixture of torment and joy. On the one hand, it may mean a rare opportunity to visit a parent behind bars—for some, the only visit of the year.