The following is a press release issued by Superior Court of California, County of Mendocino:
Mendocino County Superior Court seeks applicants to join the Mendocino County Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission (JJDPC). Applications and other applicant documents can be found on the court’s JJDPC webpage: https://www.mendocino.courts.ca.gov/jjdpc
Responsibility for administrative support for JJDPC was recently transferred to the court by the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors in Ordinance 4453, adopted February 6, 2024. JJDPC is composed of Mendocino County residents interested in advocating for a quality system of care and support for juveniles in the juvenile justice system. JJDPC seeks to promote evidence-based resources and services that can assist youth in avoiding contact and involvement with the justice system. Moreover, JJDPC strives to promote diversion programs for juveniles to give them opportunities to receive assistance and support before engaging in the justice system.
JJDPC has been in existence for many years, promoting effective programming for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. The court and current commissioners are interested in bringing on new members that represent the cultural and socio-economic diversity of the Mendocino community. The commissioners also want to encourage young people from ages 14- 21 to join the JJDPC to bring their important perspectives to the discussion. Individuals who work with youth or for organizations that serve youth are also invited to apply.
JJDPC meets once a month, on the second Friday from noon to 2:00 pm at the Ukiah courthouse. The public is welcome to attend the meetings in person or via Zoom. Contact the court at jjdpc@mendocino.courts.ca.gov for more information.
The greatest thing the juveniles in our area need is accountability for actions. I am absolutely amazed at the gross disregard for civil behavior coming from so many youths in our area. I feel as though the breakdown of parental guidance due to the handing off of raising children from the parents to Tiktok, tablets, phones, and other devices; as well as the gentle to almost non-existent hand of accountability from the justice system, has negatively impacted our youth in immeasurable ways. People used to say that having the television raise children was a disaster in the making. However, there were still ways that television could positively impact a child’s mind. Just look at Sesame Street, Mr. Rogers, Romper Room, and other programming that had positive impacts and messages. Compare those to what children are exposed to today and it’s wildly different. Children are being shown that their actions have little to no consequences. The see fame in acting out or being disruptive. They feel emboldened to act entitled because they are told that no matter their actions, even if negative, they are still special and protected. Our societies decline in law and order, in right action, in treating others with respect, can only be saved by teaching the next generation not to make the same mistakes we have been making in allowing this miserable decline on our society.