Police investigators across the city and province are always seeking to solve cases in their area. Recently, they apprehended four teenagers in connection with a number of kidnappings and robberies. This has prompted a discussion about juvenile crimes throughout the Ottawa region. Police continue to investigate the crimes they allege were committed by these teens, one of whom is 14.
Mistrial declared on Ottawa drug charges after judge misconduct
In criminal proceedings, rules must be followed on both sides of the bench. Failure to comply with Ontario law in court proceedings can result in a mistrial. This was the case with a recent trial involving drug charges in Ottawa. After a judge privately questioned an investigating officer in his chambers, a mistrial was declared.
Youth diversion program may lessen juvenile crimes in Ontario
The Youth Pre-Charge Diversion Program was recently launched in Toronto -- similar to the Ottawa Community Youth Diversion Program. Authorities say the aim is to break the cycle of juvenile crimes by giving young offenders of minor crimes the option to work with agencies in their communities rather than putting them behind bars. However, offenders will know that, if they fail to complete the program, they may have to face criminal charges.
Helicopter pursuit underscores severity of juvenile crimes
When Ontario police recently received notice of a break-in at the Wonderland theme park in Toronto, they responded in full force without realising that the suspects were three teenage boys. However, the pursuit with helicopters and a canine unit might have underscored the fact that juvenile crimes will be treated with the same vigour as adult crimes. The initial report to police described the perpetrators as masked men, but they turned out to be candy-stealing juveniles.
What to expect following an arrest for juvenile crimes
Young people in Ontario who encounter trouble with the law may have many unanswered questions. They may not know the specifics -- or even the basics -- of the Youth Criminal Justice Act regarding young people who are accused of committing juvenile crimes. The procedures following arrest can also be confusing.
Juvenile crimes need experienced legal counsel guidance
A call from police to inform parents of their child's arrest must be one of the most dreaded calls people can receive. This is not something with which most Ottawa families are familiar, and it is only natural to panic due to not knowing the first steps to take. The fact that parents might want to keep in mind is that the law protects young people, and there are skilled criminal defence lawyers to safeguard the rights of those charged with juvenile crimes.
Juvenile crimes: What extrajudicial measures are offered?
When parents in Ontario get a call to inform them that their minor child is in police custody, they may not know what legal options are available to them. There are different ways in which allegations of juvenile crimes are handled under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the charges, authorities might use extrajudicial measures.
School dropout rates and crime
There is evidence to support the fact that those who drop out of school are more likely to commit crimes. There could be many reasons for this; young people who aren't in school simply have more time, for example, or the inability to get a job could lead to crimes of desperation. Either way, it is interesting to look at the dropout rates in Canada.
Things to know about juvenile curfew laws
When it comes to juvenile curfew laws, parents and children alike should become familiar with what's expected of them. In short, this type of law is in place to ensure that juveniles are not in public areas or business establishments between certain hours, typically 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Minors are arrested for a disproportionate amount of crimes
In Canada, young people are arrested for more crimes than their population suggests they should be. About 13 percent of those who are alleged to have committed crimes are between the ages of 12 and 17. That may not seem high, but it does when you realize that this age group is a mere 7 percent of the overall population in the country.
