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(Names have been changed)
Billy W., age 17, was seen by the Panel in August 2008. He was charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, which occurred during a routine traffic stop. The youth, his mother, and step father attended the hearing. Also in attendance were the Program Coordinator, the Police Chief and three panel members. All parties introduced themselves, the program was explained to Billy and his parents and the charges were read. The panel members talked to Billy and his parents about the incident, his home life, school performance, and addressed concerns about drug use. The Police Chief explained the consequences for an adult facing the same charges. The young man was very cooperative and seemed sincere and remorseful. He had received punishment from his parents as well. Through targeted questions, the panel determined that the incident seemed to be an isolated one, and Billy did not appear to have a serious drug problem. After conferring privately, the panel recommended an action plan for Billy. The action plan included the following sanctions:
1) Observe a session of Juvenile Court;
2) Research project - The Effects of Marijuana on the Body (1000 words);
3) Attend a Drug and Alcohol Education Class; and
4) attend a tour of an area Shock Trauma facility.
In addition, each youth agrees to attend school, obey parents, complete household chores, adhere to curfew, avoid future delinquent behavior and maintain contact with his mentor. The Agreement Form was reviewed with the parents and youth and they agreed to comply with the sanctions issued by the Panel. The Agreement was signed and copies given to the parents.
Billy completed all his sanctions. He admitted that the visit to Shock Trauma was an eye-opening experience. Attending Juvenile Court with his mentor was an opportunity to see other young people in restraints, as well as the emotional aspect of families being separated. He attended the Drug and Alcohol class which featured a young speaker who shared her experience of being an intoxicated driver in a fatal car accident which resulted in the deaths of several friends. He completed his essay which required him to thoroughly research the effects of drugs on the body.
Billy seemed to have learned a valuable lesson from the incident through his experience with the Panel. He has goals and aspirations which he does not want to jeopardize by getting into trouble again.
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