NY DA Launches Juvenile Justice Initiative

BROOKLYN, NY  – Kings County District Attorney Charles J. Hynes has today announced the creation of a new juvenile justice initiative, Back On Track, aimed at steering at-risk young people away from criminal activity. The announcement was made at Back On Track’s new headquarters, the CPCA Community Enrichment Center, in Brownsville.

“The best way to prevent crime is to get young people Back On Track, before they slide completely off the rails,” said District Attorney Hynes. “This new program will provide the help these wayward teens need to stay off the streets, stay out of jail and get Back On Track. I would like to thank Dedre Wade, CPCA, and all our partners for making this a successful effort.”

“This collaboration is in keeping with my original vision and the model of my organization, which is creating partnerships that enrich lives and community,” said Dedre Wade, President of CPCA, Inc. “And I’m very happy to partner with District Attorney Hynes on this project.”

The initiative will serve as a one-stop shop for Brownsville residents, ages seven to 21, who are chronically truant, involved with the criminal justice system, or considered at risk for dropping out of school. All students referred to the Brooklyn District Attorney’s truancy program and the city Department of Probation, will be assessed by Back On Track and recommended for services. A full-time social worker, employed by the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, will work with the participants and their families, to make sure they get the assistance they need. Services offered will include parenting workshops, GED classes, computer and office skills training, vocational assistance, CDL and drivers’ education, adult and continuing education, ESL, and access to medical, dental, and mental health services, and substance abuse treatment.

Services will be provided by the many partners working with the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office and Back on Track, including CPCA, Inc.; the New York City Department of Probation; the New York City Department of Education; the Center for Court Innovation; and the Police Athletic League, all in consultation with the Vera Institute of Justice and the Bank Street College of Education.