JCB's goal to correct, deter youth violators

  • Published
  • By Investigator Brandon Z. Johnson
  • 66th Security Forces Squadron Investigations
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  With children out of school for the summer soon, the upcoming months mark one of the busiest periods for the 66th Security Forces Squadron. In the past, the number of incidents - both minor and major offenses - involving youth on base have spiked once school is dismissed.

To help reduce that trend, the 66th Air Base Group commander has the authority to initiate the Juvenile Corrections Board Program to help correct and deter potential youth violators.

The program is chaired by the 66th Air Base Group deputy commander, along with other key members from organizations such as Youth Services, Security Forces and the Legal Office.

"Living on Hanscom is a privilege and the JCB is an excellent resource for parents to use to rehabilitate youthful offenders before their behavior requires intervention from local police," said Randy Robertson, 66 ABG deputy director for Mission Support. "The JCB is another method to bolster the safety and security of Team Hanscom."

When a dependent under the age of 18 living on base is charged with an offense, he or she may be referred to a JCB hearing. The purpose of the JCB is to review incidents of misconduct committed by juveniles and decide on a course of action. The JCB is a formal hearing designed to provide the minor with an opportunity to present any information or comments on their behalf in the presence of their legal guardian.

"The 66th Air Base Group commander may suspend or revoke the base privileges of any juvenile or adult whose behavior is deemed inappropriate or detrimental to good order and discipline," said Capt. Matthew Mackay, 66th Air Base Group assistant staff judge advocate. "The privileges that may be revoked include AAFES privileges, base housing privileges, and the privilege to enter Hanscom Air Force Base."

If the board members determine the alleged offenses were committed, offenders may receive reprimands ranging from apology essays to community service. Under the more severe and repeat offenses, offenders may be banned from the base, which may force a family to move.

Throughout the summer, Security Forces will increase patrols throughout housing and other areas on base while ensuring a climate of safety and rapport among the base populace.

A youth curfew will be actively enforced by Security Forces. Children under the age of 18 who are unaccompanied by an adult are restricted from being outdoors Sunday through Thursday from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from midnight to 6 a.m.

Parents should actively promote participation in summer youth programs, the enforcement of curfew regulations and staying knowledgeable on base policies.

For more information on the Juvenile Correction Board, review 66th Air Base Group Instruction 31-801.