AREA OF FOCUS

YOUTH OFFENDERS

PROBLEM STATEMENT: A rising trend of recidivism in young offenders

FRAMING THE PROBLEM STATEMENT

Youth offending is a societal problem that sparks great concern and worry. Youths are the leaders of tomorrow and a powerhouse that will fuel the future development of the society in various aspects. With youth offending, it stands against the belief in childhood innocence and threatens society good (Armstrong, 2004).

The crime rate in Singapore is relatively low as compared to other countries. However, youth offenders constitute about one-fifth of total persons arrested, with the most common offences committed to being shop theft, rioting and other forms of theft (Singapore Police Force, 2014).

This is a worrying figure as more young people are going down the wrong path towards a life of crime. In particular, recidivism is a vital issue that needs to be resolved. In recent years, youth crime rates have decreased, but the tendency for juvenile offenders to re-offend after rehabilitation is on the rise.

Statistics from the Ministry of Social and Family Development show that an estimated two in five former residents of youth homes reverted back to their old ways within three years after release (Wong, 2019). This highlights the pressing need to address the upward trend of recidivism among youth offenders.

THE YOUTH COURT

In Singapore, cases related to offences committed by children and young persons below the age of 18 years are tried in the Youth Court.

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE

The Youth Court adopts Restorative Justice as its guiding philosophy. It acknowledges the prospect of change and reform in young offenders and delinquent youths (Chan, 2012).

In Restorative Justice, the focus is placed on attempting to balance public interest and the youth’s accountability. The practice of Restorative Justice aims to help the young offender resume normal life in their families and respective communities.