Agencies in Erie County are partnering up to give youth offenders a second chance while helping to meet their needs.
Erie County District Attorney John Flynn announced Friday the start of a new restorative justice pilot program that will give adolescents with pending low-level criminal charges the opportunity to own up to their mistakes, hear from those they hurt and make a change.
The program is part of a partnership between the DA’s office, the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition and the Buffalo Police Department’s Neighborhood Engagement Team.
“I believe in giving people a second chance,” Flynn (D) said. “I especially believe in giving kids a second chance.”
He added that eligibility for the program is on a case-by-case basis, but it applies to underage offenders who committed nonviolent crimes. Everyone who participates must volunteer to participate.
“This will benefit the community in the long-term because we are building relationships with the youth that are sustainable not just for now, but long into their future,” said Dina Thompson, executive director of the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition.
The goal is to address the root cause of these criminal acts and connect offenders with agencies that can help set them up for long-term success.