Online conferencing was a lifeline for school lessons and business meetings during the pandemic. However, there is concern about the effects of virtual court hearings on Illinois juvenile offenders. The "Justice For Children Policy Brief" said minors reported feeling frustrated and anxious during their hearings because they could not understand court procedures. .
Youth incarceration rates have declined in Indiana and nationwide since 2014. But a new study shows young people of color are more likely to be jailed than their white counterparts - and Indiana is no exception. The Indiana Juvenile Justice Racial and Ethnic Disparities Plan says almost 30% of Black youths are placed in pretrial facilities, compared to almost 16% of white youths. .
A new study recommends state agencies change their methods to address child labor trafficking. Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Social Work surveyed child welfare and juvenile justice professionals, and found that 20% reported they have worked with people under 18 who were coerced or controlled by another person or entity for their labor and over 40% expect to do so in the future. Trafficked children are typically forced to do things like domestic service, childcare, food industry and retail work - as well as forced criminal activity such as stealing or selling drugs. .