South West police back magistrate on rehab aim for young offenders

One of the South West’s most senior police officers has backed a Busselton magistrate’s view that juvenile criminals need help to break their cycle of offending before it’s too late. Last week Magistrate Belinda Coleman told the Busselton Children’s Court the goal of the youth justice system was rehabilitation and stopping criminal activity of minors before they turned 18. South West Acting Supt Steve George, pictured, said keeping young people out of the justice system was the aim. “WA Police support government and non-government agencies in a wide range of diversionary programs and education courses to keep young people out of the justice system,” he said. “Research suggests that introducing a young person to the justice system at an early age does not prevent re-offending, and diversion can be more effective in reducing offending behaviour. “Youth policing officers provide support to local police in the South West District and offer a layer of oversight to address youth crime, modify behaviour, and liaise between agen-cies. “This early identification is vital to ensure the safety of the community and positive futures for young people.” Supt George said local officers first considered several actions before referring the young offender to the Children’s Court, including written warnings and referral to the Juvenile Justice team. Working alongside WA Police, the City of Busselton’s youth officers are also aiming to help local youth become happy and confident young adults. Mayor Grant Henley said the City’s Busselton Foreshore Youth Precinct was a way the city assisted by giving young people a place to enjoy care-free fun rather than partaking in criminal activities. “The precinct provides a high-profile location for local youth to socialise and enjoy the best of what our district has to offer,” he said. “There has been a notable shift in youth behaviour and attitudes since the youth centre opened up. The youth crime rate has decreased, and many of the regular attendees have obtained employment and through mentoring and participating in educational campaigns. “Most young people who attend the precinct do the right thing, (but) from time to time some do cause problems. “In these instances, the City’s youth officers work collaboratively with the police and other support organisations.”