Every Youth–Law Enforcement Interaction Should Be Guided by Clear, Written Policy

Consistent expectations make interactions safer.

Written policy lets agency leaders address youth-related issues proactively, reducing risk while strengthening officer decision-making, accountability, and community trust. SFY helps agencies develop and implement policies that reflect how young people develop, learn, and experience authority.

SEE OUR MODEL POLICIES

Most Policies Do Not Address Youth Encounters

When standards reflect youth development, agencies build safer communities and more confident, effective officers. Existing policies are often vague, leaving officers without guidance in critical moments. Most states and accreditation bodies offer none for developmentally appropriate youth interactions. Without clear policy, expectations vary by department, youth encounters are handled inconsistently, risk rises for officers and young people alike, and community trust erodes.

Without youth-specific training:

Existing policies are often vague, leaving officers without guidance in critical moments. Most states and accreditation bodies offer none for developmentally appropriate youth interactions. Without clear policy, expectations vary by department, youth encounters are handled inconsistently, risk rises for officers and young people alike, and community trust erodes.

Our 12 Model Policies for Youth Interactions

A framework for safer, more consistent encounters, grounded in adolescent development.

SFY’s model policies have already been recommended by the San Francisco Police Commission and are being adopted by major law enforcement agencies.

Policies in Practice

Law Enforcement Leaders, Accreditation Agencies & POSTs

Proactive policy reduces risk and liability, supports developmentally appropriate interactions, strengthens leadership, and helps maintain community trust.

Youth & Communities

A complete, vetted framework replaces fragmented approaches and supports informed, consistent decision-making.

Policy Tools and Guidances

Policy guides, implementation resources, and supporting research to help agencies adopt youth-specific policies.

EXPLORE POLICY RESOURCES

Driving System-Level Change Across Jurisdictions

Among small agencies

0%

have no policies guiding responses & interactions with youth.

"[SFY policies] are grounded in experience, understanding, respect, and common sense. They should become a part of the charter of every law enforcement agency in the country."

-Mark Peel, Editor of the Juveline Justice Update

Bring Policy Guidance to Your Agency or State

SFY partners with agencies and policymakers to build systems that make youth–law enforcement interactions safer.

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