CJCC commissioned a study by Opportunity Consulting to deepen the understanding of youth-involved violent crime in the District by centering the voices of those most affected— youth, families, community members, community-based organizations, and agency representatives. The study was guided by four areas of inquiry:
1. What is driving youth to engage in violent crimes?
2. What approaches are effective in discouraging youth involvement in violent crime?
3. What forms of accountability are seen as fair and appropriate for youth who engage in violent crime?
4. To what extent are youth and families aware of services and supports, and what barriers limit access?
The resulting report is now complete and available.