Juvenile Justice Journal

Fall 2024

From the Deputy Secretary's Desk

DJJDP Prepares for Implementation of HB 834 and New Capacity Legislation

During the annual Juvenile Justice leadership conference in October, DJJDP staff from across the state gathered in Concord to review the latest trends in Juvenile Justice. Topics discussed included upcoming changes to state law involving the implementation of HB 834, as well as new statutes regarding juvenile capacity to proceed and remediation options for juveniles lacking capacity.

House Bill 834

Going into effect Dec. 1, HB 834 will exclude 16- and 17-year-olds charged with Class A-E felonies from juvenile jurisdiction, among other changes. Learn more about HB 834 and its impacts in these items prepared by DJJDP General Counsel LaToya Powell.

Capacity and Remediation

As of Jan. 1, a new law regarding juvenile capacity to proceed and remediation will go into effect in North Carolina. Learn more about this new law and its implications in this presentation from UNC School of Government Associate Professor Jacquelyn Greene.

NC S.A.F.E. Campaign Brings Safe Firearm Storage Message to Thousands of North Carolinians

Throughout 2024, the NC S.A.F.E. campaign has reached thousands of North Carolinians with the crucial message of safe firearm storage. Campaign highlights from the past several months include:

• Establishing NC S.A.F.E. for Schools, a program designed to help North Carolina school districts share resources about safe firearm storage with parents in their district. 
• Participating for the duration of the NC State Fair, including the display of a large banner in the entryway of the Kerr Scott Building. Thousands of gun locks were distributed during this event, along with several gun safes and literature regarding safe firearm storage.
• Establishing partnerships with Charlotte Motor Speedway and NC State Athletics.
• Partnering with NC Wildlife Resources Commission to establish specialized advertisements encouraging safe firearm storage during hunting season.
• Collaborating with local governments, law enforcement, healthcare providers and schools during many community events across the state, including National Night Out, events at local schools and local festivals.
• Winning several marketing recognitions, including a Muse Creative Award, a NYX Award and a VEGA Award.

Features

Career Day Offers Students Glimpse of Future Employment Possibilities

As juveniles in North Carolina’s youth development centers approach young adulthood, many will soon be taking the big step back into society, and to be successful, they will need to find gainful employment. Read more about how JJ facilities are connecting them with career opportunities.

Podcasting Program Empowers Youth to Share Their Stories

Over the summer, youth at Cabarrus Juvenile Detention Center had a unique opportunity to explore the world of podcasting and digital media through a special curriculum offered at the facility. In September, three participants shared their experiences on the DPS Safety Scoop podcast.

Updates from Central Office

Learn more about the latest happenings in Raleigh, including DJJDP staff appointments, legislative priorities and important changes to juvenile law.

Raising the Bar Winners Honored

During Juvenile Justice Week, the Division recognized this year's Raising the Bar Award winners, honoring those who have gone above and beyond to serve our state's youth.

Datapoints: Teen Court Evaluation

An evaluation of Teen Court shows reduced rates of recidivism for youth who successfully complete the program, compared to those placed in other diversion programs or approved for court.

Thank You to Our Partners!

Thank you for taking time out of your day to read the second edition of the Juvenile Justice Journal. We value your partnership as we work together to address the difficult issues of juvenile delinquency in our state.

We also value strong communication and collaboration on these important matters, and invite you to share feedback via the poll presented in this section.

If you have any feedback or comments regarding this edition of the JJ Journal, or ideas for improvements, please share your thoughts at djjdpcomms@ncdps.gov.

Know Someone Who Cares About Youth? We're Hiring!

The North Carolina Division of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention offers a variety of career paths for those who seek to make a positive impact in the lives of at-risk and justice-involved youth. From providing mentorship at one of our state-operated facilities, to helping youth and families navigate the criminal justice system, career opportunities are available statewide.