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Introduced by state Sen. Robert Peters, D-Chicago, Senate Bill
1784 would also establish that arrests involving such minors can
only be carried out as a last resort, in such instances where
probable cause that they committed a crime is apparent, or if
they have repeatedly failed to appear at scheduled hearings on
the matter.
“If a juvenile does something at the age of 10, I think we
definitely need to have parental involvement as the priority,”
Ford told The Center Square. “And if there's going to be charges
made, I think that parents should be involved from day one,
almost as if they're being charged with the crime.”
Supporters of the measure also argue that it’s well past time
that the state makes use of a juvenile justice system that
focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment.
“You talk about introduction into the prison pipeline, that
right there is traumatizing,” Ford said. “Without a doubt, the
child will be traumatized when they are arrested and involved
with the police. It definitely changes their perspective on the
police. Whatever the crime, 10 years old is too young to be
involved with law enforcement. I think parents should be
involved with the child.”
Ford said he’s been giving plenty of thought to all the young
people taking part in the so-called “teen takeovers” that have
plagued city streets, arguing that the scene could also be much
different if city officials were committed to a different
approach.
“I mean, you would think that the city colleges, city parks,
museums, all of those would have free passes for young people,”
he said. “What they have is they get to run the streets without
structure. You can't afford to pay for park programs; you can't
… afford to go to boxing class; you can't afford to go to swim,
baseball, hockey, you name it, it's expensive. Sometimes,
students are priced out of structure.”
After passing the Senate by a 33-17 vote, the measure now heads
to the House for debate.
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