Two very different approaches to curbing youth violence
Boston Police have launched a violence prevention program called Safe Homes, an experimental violence prevention program that allows police to ask a parent’s permission to search their teen’s property for guns without a warrant. The program has been examined in the Boston Globe, Time Magazine, and MSNBC (no longer posted).
While the aim of Safe Homes is to make the streets safer. I worry that it will perpetuate the negative images of youth—especially in the Roxbury, Dorchester and Mattapan areas, and decrease trust in police. And despite the fact that police say charges will not be filed as part of the program, I wonder what this experience will do for to the kid's reputation and options for the future.
One way I do see youth being reached who are “below the radar” is through the host of faith-based programs in the Boston area. In my experience, youth who are not active in schools are often involved in their church youth group. Some churches have trained youth workers or street workers that really take the time to mentor and counsel youth on the verge of legal problems or who are deeply involved in gang activity. Instead of searches, maybe we should prioritize partnerships with folks who already have the trust and relationship with the kids not on traditional radars.
I am very uncomfortable with
I am very uncomfortable with parents giving the police permission to search their homes and children without a warrant. As if we didn't already have issues relating to race-based warantless searches, this practice would clearly negatively affect communities of color. And yes, perpetuate negative images of youth in those particular areas.
I worked for a faith based community organization for several years and we focused much of our activity on youth violence prevention. The initiatives that worked best were art programs based in churches, street workers who created and maintained relationships with the youth they met daily on the streets, and free or low cost activities that young peole could attend.
I don't believe that it's possible to change a negative situation with a negative solution based on mistrust and bypassing a constitutional right. Rather, with compassion, research, creativity and FUNDING!!
The Boys & Girls Clubs do a
The Boys & Girls Clubs do a lot on this subject as well. They have social workers stationed in certain police stations to connect teens with positive, structured programs rather than just locking them up.
Joe, that is an awesome
Joe, that is an awesome resource to have at the police stations—a social worker from the Boys & Girls Club. More partnerships like this can do so much more than the standard "jail time" or "parole experience." A way to connect with youth and bring structure into their lives is direction I hope more cities continue to adopt.
Carly, I agree FUNDING is a big factor in changing a negative situation. I share the same concerns of possible after effects of a safe home search. Since posting the blog, I learned through research and discussions that a lot of the concerns the community is expressing is being addressed and that their will be buffers in place. This program is voluntary and will help in extreme cases (i.e. a parent that is afraid of their child). Safe Homes works with local clergy (as part of Operation Homefront) and Youth Service Providers Network social workers—both provide follow-up visits. It's good to see a partnership with the police, social workers and clergy that represent the community.
For more information on Safe Homes, you can download the Boston Police Department's brochure at http://bpdnews.com/safehomes/safehomes.pdf
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