New Program Can Clear First-Offender Records

A new program is starting in Mobile County to help young people in trouble with the law.
It could be a solution to juvenile crime.
The program is called "Juvenile Redirection."
It's being started by Learning for Life, a division of the Mobile Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
Learning for Life executive Amberly Wittner said, "Its an eight week program for first time, non-violent offenders. We teach things like life skills, interview skills, how to fill out a job application, loyalty to one another, teamwork."
Juvenile Redirection has the blessing of Mobile County Juvenile Court Judge Edmond Naman.
Naman said it offers first time, non-violent offenders "a chance to keep this crime off of their record, but they at the same time are going to go through an eight week or an eight session program, the end of which will involve some community service aspect. It will also involve having their parents involved in the process."
The program is for young men and women aged 14 to 18.
The first class starts July 28.
Wittner said, "If anyone has any referrals out there, we'll take referrals from schools. We'll also take them from parents if you think your kid needs a little extra pushing."
Judge Naman added, "Truancy is certainly one aspect of it that we think is very important that would be perfect for this program. Shoplifting has been such a problem."
If you know of someone who might eligible for "Juvenile Redirection," or want to get more information, call 476-4600.