As the school year winds down and summer begins, it’s important for parents to be aware of the common crimes that juveniles often get involved in. Understanding these issues and taking proactive steps can help keep kids out of trouble during their free time. I’m Roger Pierre Bouchard, a seasoned criminal defense attorney, and I’ve seen firsthand how quickly things can go wrong for young people. Here are some common crimes juveniles get into during the summer and tips on how parents can help prevent them.
Common Juvenile Crimes in the Summer
- Vandalism: With more free time on their hands, some teens might engage in vandalism, such as graffiti, breaking windows, or damaging property. This is often done out of boredom or peer pressure.
- Shoplifting: The allure of new clothes, gadgets, or other items can lead some teens to shoplift, especially when they’re hanging out at the mall with friends.
- Underage Drinking: Summer parties and gatherings often include alcohol, and underage drinking can lead to serious legal trouble and dangerous situations.
- Curfew Violations: Many cities have curfew laws for minors. Staying out too late can result in curfew violations, which can escalate into more serious offenses.
- Drug Use: Increased social activity during the summer can lead to experimentation with drugs, which carries significant legal and health risks.
- Trespassing: Exploring abandoned buildings or private property for fun can result in trespassing charges.
How Parents Can Prevent Summer Trouble
- Stay Engaged and Communicate: Keep open lines of communication with your teen. Talk about their plans, who they’re with, and what they’re doing. Showing interest in their lives can help them feel valued and less likely to seek out risky behavior.
- Establish Rules and Consequences: Make sure your teen understands the family rules and the consequences of breaking them. Consistent enforcement of these rules can deter misbehavior.
- Supervise and Monitor: While giving your teen some independence is important, keeping an eye on their activities is crucial. Know where they are, who they’re with, and what they’re doing, especially during late hours.
- Encourage Positive Activities: Get your teen involved in constructive activities like sports, summer camps, volunteering, or part-time jobs. These activities can keep them busy and away from trouble.
- Educate About Legal Consequences: Have candid discussions about the legal consequences of common juvenile crimes. Understanding the serious repercussions can deter your teen from engaging in illegal activities.
- Create a Safe Environment: Ensure your home is a safe place where your teen and their friends can hang out. Providing a space where they can have fun without getting into trouble can be very effective.
- Be a Role Model: Set a good example for your teen. Demonstrating responsible behavior and decision-making can significantly influence their actions.
Summer should be a time for fun and relaxation, but it’s also a period when juveniles might encounter more opportunities to get into trouble. By staying involved, setting clear expectations, and encouraging positive activities, parents can help their teens navigate the summer safely and responsibly.
If you are seeking quality and aggressive defense counsel for your child, remember that I am here to help and offer on call 24/7/365 criminal defense phone consultations at 513-926-4655. Stay safe this summer.
