Partnerships for Juvenile Detention Reform

The value of building strong sustainable partnerships with law enforcement.

While many law enforcement leaders across the country are already deeply engaged in JDAI, supportive of its mission and committed to its success, others need convincing. For patrol officers and commanders to participate constructively in JDAI, they need to understand how it is good for youth, consistent with public safety and beneficial for law enforcement.

Making the case for JDAI is important, but stakeholders’
ultimate success in building strong and sustainable partnerships with law enforcement depends as much on listening as on delivering effective arguments. Asking law enforcement personnel about their concerns with current juvenile justice procedures and soliciting input on issues that directly affect officers can provide a starting point for fruitful dialogue.