Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Kicks Off School Threats Awareness Campaign
Sep 17, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2019
CONTACT:
DJJ Communications Office
news@djj.state.fl.us
(850) 921-5900
Tallahassee, Fla.—The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice announced today a new awareness campaign aimed at addressing school threats made by students in Florida. The “It’s No Joke” campaign aims to dissuade youth from making school threats, because doing so can lead to being arrested and charged with a felony.
“We want young people in Florida to understand that, in today’s environment, every threat is taken very seriously and, even if made in jest, can lead to devastating consequences,” said DJJ Secretary Simone Marstiller. “There is nothing funny about threatening a school, and there is nothing funny about being charged with a felony. We want young people to think twice before casually threatening violence in their schools.”
School related offenses include making false reports concerning a bomb, explosives, or firearms and possessing or discharging weapons or firearms on school property on a school-sponsored event. The “It’s No Joke” awareness campaign seeks to educate youth and parents that even threats made online, including on social media and gaming sites, can lead to a youth being charged with a felony offense.
Youth, parents, and teachers are also encouraged to report any and all threats they see or hear. They can notify law enforcement of a threat or can report a threat anonymously through Florida’s FortifyFL app, a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows you to instantly relay information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials.
“Our top priority is the safety and security of students and teachers,” said Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran. “It is critical that students take threats very seriously and report suspicious activity. I encourage all students and educators to download the FortifyFL app to report potentially unsafe situations, which could prevent a tragedy.”
The number of Florida youth charged with school threat related offenses has risen steadily in the last three years. In Fiscal Year 2016-2017, 629 youth were charged with school threat related offenses, followed by 687 youth in Fiscal Year 2017-2018, and 779 youth in Fiscal Year 2018-2019.
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2019 Human Trafficking Summit
Sep 16, 2019
Statewide conference on preventing labor and sex trafficking of children and adults. Breakout sessions will include recent updates and developments in the areas of legal/law enforcement, service delivery, policy and research, and medical/healthcare.
Event Date:
Monday September 30, 2019
8:30AM- 6:00PM
Location:
Hyatt Regency Orlando
9801 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819
Free for all to attend
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Launches Updated Suicide Prevention Curriculum
Sep 12, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
September 12, 2019
CONTACT:
DJJ Communications Office
news@djj.state.fl.us
(850) 921-5900
Tallahassee, Fla.—In support of September as National Suicide Awareness Month and National Suicide Prevention Week, the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice is launching its newly updated suicide prevention curriculum for all DJJ and contracted provider staff. The goals of this curriculum are to increase awareness about suicide and better equip staff with the knowledge to understand, respond and support youth in crisis.
“Suicide prevention is an integral part of the work we do at DJJ,” said DJJ Secretary Simone Marstiller. “It begins at the first point of contact with a youth, and we continually assess suicide risk the entire time a youth is in a DJJ program or facility.”
This new curriculum was created based on current research, best practices and the Gatekeeper™ training concept. The curriculum will consist of updated components on understanding suicide and terminology, identifying risk factors and warning signs, and learning appropriate ways to talk about suicide and respond. This curriculum will replace the current suicide prevention curriculum used by DJJ and will be phased in over the next few months.
DJJ also hosted an employee wellness event to coincide with Suicide Awareness Month. The event included self-care techniques, health tips and resources centered around learning how to take care of yourself in order to take care of others.
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Human Trafficking Seminar in Circuit 14
Jul 16, 2019
Freedom 180, the Positive Youth Development Program of the Florida Department of Health in Bay County, and Florida State University’s Panama City Campus are proud to announce the More Th>n A Nu#ber: A Human Trafficking Seminar. The conference will be focused on Human Trafficking; not only recognizing the signs, but what an individual can do to help eradicate Human Trafficking in their area. Registration link is provided
Freedom 180, the Positive Youth Development Program of the Florida Department of Health in Bay County, and Florida State University’s Panama City Campus are proud to announce the More Th>n A Nu#ber: A Human Trafficking Seminar. The conference will be focused on Human Trafficking; not only recognizing the signs, but what an individual can do to help eradicate Human Trafficking in their area. We also have the honor of hearing from two survivors of Human Trafficking; one that was trafficked in Northwest Florida including Bay County.
Seats are limited, so reserve your spot soon.
This conference is FREE to attend, but you MUST register to attend the event.
When: Friday, July 26, 2019
Where: The Holley Building in the Holley Lecture Hall
4750 Collegiate Dr., Panama City, FL 32405
Florida State University’s Panama City Campus
Time: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Governor Ron DeSantis Signs 2019-2020 “Bold Vision for a Brighter Future” Budget
Jun 21, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 21, 2019
CONTACT:
DJJ Communications Office
news@djj.state.fl.us
(850) 921-5900
Governor Ron DeSantis Signs 2019-2020 “Bold Vision for a Brighter Future” Budget
Tallahassee, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the “Bold Vision for a Brighter Future” budget for fiscal year 2019-2020. This budget ensures that Florida will continue to be a national leader in innovative, evidence-based approaches to juvenile justice and helps to strengthen the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice’s work in reducing juvenile delinquency and providing optimal services for youth and families.
“I would like to thank Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for continuing to invest in Florida’s at-risk youth by supporting prevention and early intervention services as well as supporting funding to increase the level of evidence-based treatment services for those youth most in need,” said Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Secretary Simone Marstiller. “The funding provided will ensure that we continue to best serve youth and families and remain focused on public safety for all Floridians.”
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Child Sex Trafficking Training in Florida starting August 2019
Apr 19, 2019
This training is designed to provide law enforcement investigators, patrol officers and social service providers with the information necessary to properly understand, recognize, and respond to cases involving child sex trafficking and exploitation. Learn the dynamics of trafficking and exploitation to improve skills related to victim identification and recovery, interviewing techniques for recovered victims, and effective techniques for a fully corroborated investigation to hold the perpetrator(s) accountable.
This training is designed to provide law enforcement investigators, patrol officers and social service providers with the information necessary to properly understand, recognize, and respond to cases involving child sex trafficking and exploitation. Learn the dynamics of trafficking and exploitation to improve skills related to victim identification and recovery, interviewing techniques for recovered victims, and effective techniques for a fully corroborated investigation to hold the perpetrator(s) accountable.
Objectives/Goals:
- Fully understand the dynamics of child sex trafficking, victim selection, control techniques and why this crime is often undetected and under investigated.
- Effectively recognize and recover victims of child sex trafficking.
- Utilize victim centered interview techniques with recovered victims.
- Learn to utilize effective techniques for the investigation of child sex trafficking.
Date(s) and Location(s):
Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) Training Opportunity in Circuit 06
Apr 08, 2019
An in-depth level of training for those who will be working directly with sexually exploited youth and their supervisors. Attendees must have a basic understanding of commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). This training addresses youth development, stages of change and teaches basic skills in motivational interviewing and trauma informed care, ending with the importance of addressing vicarious trauma and self-care. The goal is to ensure that a person-centered approach is employed when working with commercially sexually exploited youth.
An in-depth level of training for those who will be working directly with sexually exploited youth and their supervisors. Attendees must have a basic understanding of commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC). This training addresses youth development, stages of change and teaches basic skills in motivational interviewing and trauma informed care, ending with the importance of addressing vicarious trauma and self-care. The goal is to ensure that a person-centered approach is employed when working with commercially sexually exploited youth.
Objectives:
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Review Stages of Change model and techniques of Motivational Interviewing
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Discuss trauma triggers and advanced safety planning
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Suggest how to manage vicarious trauma and practice self-care.
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Incorporate trauma-informed care and person-centered approaches into interactions with survivors
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Learn more about how trauma impacts youth brain development
Date:
April 24th, 2019
Two sessions to choose from:
1) 9:30am - 12:30pm
2) 1:30pm - 4:30pm
Location:
Eckerd Community Alternatives
8550 Ulmerton Road, Suite 255
Largo, FL 33771
Registration Deadline:
April 17th, 2019
First Lady Casey DeSantis Honors DJJ Youth Ambassadors During Youth Success Day
Mar 27, 2019
First Lady Casey DeSantis honored the 2019 Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) Youth Ambassadors yesterday at the Florida Governor’s Mansion in celebration of Youth Success Day. Joining the First Lady in honoring this year’s ambassadors were DJJ Secretary Simone Marstiller, DJJ leadership, community partners and members of both the Florida Juvenile Justice Foundation and Florida Juvenile Justice Association.
For Immediate Release
March 27, 2019
Tallahassee, Fla. – First Lady Casey DeSantis honored the 2019 Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) Youth Ambassadors yesterday at the Florida Governor’s Mansion in celebration of Youth Success Day. Joining the First Lady in honoring this year’s ambassadors were DJJ Secretary Simone Marstiller, DJJ leadership, community partners and members of both the Florida Juvenile Justice Foundation and Florida Juvenile Justice Association.
DJJ Youth Ambassadors are youth in the state of Florida who have turned their lives around for the better after contact with the juvenile justice system or who have participated in prevention programs for children at risk of entering the system. These ambassadors serve as role models for other at-risk kids throughout the state.
(Photo Credit: Governor's Press Office)
“As a mother of two, I know firsthand how important it is for children to have strong role models they can look up to and ask for help when they need it,” said First Lady DeSantis. “These ambassadors demonstrate potential realized. They serve as leaders for youth who may be experiencing similar challenges and I was proud to recognize them today.”
“With incredible determination and strength, these young people have overcome the odds to show that your past does not define your future,” said DJJ Secretary Marstiller. “Success for them means overcoming adversity, learning from their mistakes and working toward a better life for themselves.”
The department solicits nominations for the Youth Ambassador Award from providers, community stakeholders and the public at large. Youth Ambassadors received a certificate and Youth Investment Award from the Florida Juvenile Justice Foundation, which is the direct support organization for DJJ.
The 2019 Ambassadors are as follows:
Savannah Frietze
Savannah has faced challenges from a very young age and has been involved in both the foster care and delinquency systems. Savannah was committed to a juvenile residential commitment program and after successfully completing the program, she was placed on post-commitment probation. Since that time, she is living independently through the Children in Crisis Independent Living Program, excelling in her classes and is looking for part-time employment. Savannah has also met with a local Marine Corps recruiter to discuss enlistment after completing school.
Rontarrious Hughes
Rontarrious attends the AMIkids Gadsden’s after school program where he receives prevention services. Rontarrious has faced difficult challenges in his life, particularly when it comes to his family, but success for Rontarrious means overcoming these adversities. While at AMI, Rontarrious has earned the rank of master sergeant, he is a member of Students Against Drunk Driving, and at AMIkids Winter Challenge in January, he was awarded the Hartwell Leadership Award for exhibiting exceptional leadership qualities. Rontarrious plans to attend Tallahassee Community College.
Timmy Lee
Timmy has faced many challenges, including spending time in foster care due to a house fire that almost destroyed his family home. Even though the environment Timmy found himself in was at times difficult, he did not allow it to define who he was as a person. Timmy has experienced challenges that at times, but with the efforts of the local Boys & Girls Club and the Prodigy Cultural Arts Program, combined with self-will, he has become a hardworking, inspiring, and empowering young man. Today, Timmy is the leader of the “Improve Lacoochee Trilby” group that meets annually to discuss what can be done to progress the community he calls home.
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Finding Justice for Human Trafficking Survivors: Labor Trafficking
Jan 25, 2019
Justice system representatives and experts will speak on a range of issues raised by the PBS Frontline documentary film “Trafficked in America” which will be shown from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. with lunch and program to follow immediately the film. Topics will include:the prevalence of labor trafficking in Florida and in the Big Bend; the challenges and realities of trafficking of minors and their vulnerability; immigration legal issues and assistance for victims; and how those in the justice system and the public can best respond to bring justice to trafficking survivors and our community.
Justice system representatives and experts will speak on a range of issues raised by the PBS Frontline documentary film “Trafficked in America” which will be shown from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. with lunch and program to follow immediately the film. Topics will include:the prevalence of labor trafficking in Florida and in the Big Bend; the challenges and realities of trafficking of minors and their vulnerability; immigration legal issues and assistance for victims;
and how those in the justice system and the public can best respond to bring justice to trafficking survivors and our community.
Hosts/Sponsors: FSU College of Law, FSU Center for the Advancement of Human Rights, Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center (STAC), Legal Services of North Florida, Tallahassee Women Lawyers, International Rescue Committee, Sister’s Embrace, FSU Golden Key Society, and OUTLaw.
Contact:
Robin Hassler Thompson
STAC
850-597-2080
robin@surviveandthriveadvocacy.org
Event Date:
Thursday, January 31st, 2019
11:30AM-4PM
Location:
Florida State University College of Law
425 West Jefferson Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301
Program is free; lunch is provided. If CLE required: $75; CLE scholarships available, contact STAC
Human Trafficking Community Training Program
Jan 25, 2019
This certificate program will focus on the knowledge and skills to recognize and assist human trafficking survivors in a variety of settings.
This certificate program will focus on the knowledge and skills to recognize and assist human trafficking survivors in a variety of settings. Special topics for February 15th will include identifying sex trafficking cases among youth in the Big Bend and survivors’ needs and assistance. Special topics for March 15th will include issues facing our schools and how to mobilize in schools and higher education to identify and intervene in human trafficking cases in the Big Bend, including how students can mobilize and take action.
Contact:
STAC
850-597-2080
stac@surviveandthriveadvocacy.org
To register, please send your name and contact information to:
stac@surviveandthriveadvocacy.org
Event Date:
Friday, February 19th, 2019
1PM-3PM
and
Friday, March 19th, 2019
1PM-3PM
Location:
The Kearney Center
2650 Municipal Way
Tallahassee, FL 32304
Free for all to attend.
California's Forgotten Children Film Screening at Florida State University
Jan 25, 2019
"California's Forgotten Children", a documentary about child sex trafficking in California, will be shown at Florida State University's Student Life Cinema.
“California's Forgotten Children" is a feature documentary about child sex trafficking. The film recounts true stories of girls and boys who were commercially sexually exploited in California and are now survivors and courageous leaders fighting for the rights of victims worldwide. The survivors’ stories show that any child can be exploited regardless of ethnicity or social economic background. This film highlights heroic stories from abolitionists and advocates who work night and day to protect children to put an end to this epidemic. The showing will be followed by a panel discussion. Parking can be difficult, so please arrive early.
Contact:
Daniela Donoso
BBCAHT.Students@gmail.com
Event Date:
Sunday, January 27th, 2019
7PM-9PM
Location:
Florida State University Student Life Cinema
942 Learning Way
Tallahassee, FL 32304
Free for all to attend.
Big Bend Coalition Against Human Trafficking Community Human Trafficking Forum in Gadsden County
Jan 25, 2019
This forum will focus on the issues of human trafficking in Gadsden County including both sex and labor trafficking, and the impact of trafficking after disasters like Hurricane Michael. Local and community leaders will present information and hold an open forum to discuss human trafficking and needed community responses.
This forum will focus on the issues of human trafficking in Gadsden County
including both sex and labor trafficking, and the impact of trafficking after disasters like Hurricane Michael. Local and community leaders will present information and hold an open forum to discuss human trafficking, how to support farmers and other food purveyors whose produce and work is “slavery-free,” and other needed community responses. Refreshments will be available.
Contact:
Monica Smart Gainous
Event Date:
Saturday, January 26th, 2019
11AM-1PM
Location:
Gadsden County Public Library
732 South Pat Thomas Parkway
Quincy, FL 32351
Free for all to attend.
"Salon Talk" - A Free Workshop on Human Trafficking
Jan 15, 2019
This workshop will provide professional speakers who are involved in the field of human trafficking, survivor stories, as well information of the human trafficking going on in the Tampa Bay area.
This workshop is designed to bring awareness of the types of Human Trafficking that affects children, men and women. The target population for this workshop are: hair salons, barber shops, massage parlors and nail salons as well as any other interested business professionals and the community. This workshop will provide professional speakers who are involved in the field of human trafficking, survivor stories, as well information of the human trafficking going on in the Tampa Bay area.
Contact:
Vonceil Smith
727‐344‐8021
Registration Link
Event Date:
Friday, February 15th, 2019
10AM-2PM
Location:
Saint Petersburg College - Midtown Campus
MTJC 141 (Community Room)
1300 22nd Street, South
Saint Petersburg 33712
Free for all to attend.
Alachua County Coalition Against Human Trafficking Annual Meeting
Jan 10, 2019
The Alachua County Coalition Against Human Trafficking holds its annual meeting during human trafficking awareness week.
The Alachua County Coalition Against Human Trafficking holds its annual meeting during human trafficking awareness week. The main purpose of the meeting is to engage all members of the community in the fight to end modern day slavery. During the meeting we will also present awards to outstanding individuals who have made a substantial contribution to combating human trafficking through public education, investigations of human trafficking crimes, and services for survivors. The RISE award Recognition of Individuals Serving with Excellence was created to recognize the tireless efforts of people that make it their mission to make our community a better place to live. This year our keynote speaker is Bill Cervone, State Attorney for the Florida 8th Judicial Circuit. Lunch will be provided.
*Note: Registration for this event is still open.
Event Date:
Friday, January 11, 2019
11:30am to 1:30pm
Event Location:
Trinity United Methodist Church
4000 NW 53 Ave
Gainesville, FL 32653
Contact:
Circuit 7 Human Trafficking Poster Event
Dec 27, 2018
Come join in creating posters for the Freedom 7 Human Trafficking Task Force Light the Way Walk.
Come join in creating posters for the Freedom 7 Human Trafficking Task Force Light the Way Walk. Please bring art supplies, creativity, and a spirit of fun! Community service hours are available for youth. Please RSVP by January 4th.
Event Date:
January 9th, 2019
1:30-5PM
Location:
210 North Palmetto Avenue
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Contact:
Zemetria Anderson
zemetria.anderson@djj.state.fl.us
(386) 238-4600
Jeanna
(386) 547-4074
Free for all to attend.
Light the Way, Walk with Me
Dec 27, 2018
Come join the Circuit 7 Human Trafficking Taskforce's 3rd Annual HT "Light the Way" walk. Each of the 4 counties in Circuit 7 will walk to show support for HT victims and survivors in the community and will share HT information with the community.
Come join Freedom 7's 3rd Annual HT "Light the Way" walk. Each of the 4 counties in Circuit 7 will walk to show support for HT victims and survivors in the community and will share HT information with the community. Community service hours are available for youth.
Event Date:
January 11th, 2019
5PM
Locations:
Flagler: Wadsworth Park
2200 Moody Blvd Flagler Beach, FL 32136
St. Johns: Bridge of Lions
2010 A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Putnam: Memorial Bridge
FL-100, East Palatka, FL 32131
Volusia: City Island Park
113 E Magnolia Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Contact:
Zemetria Anderson
zemetria.anderson@djj.state.fl.us
(386) 238-4600
Free for all to attend. No registration required.
Circuit 1 Human Trafficking Summit
Dec 21, 2018
This event will teach attendees what Human Trafficking is, how to identify signs of trafficking, and how to help in the fight against trafficking.
This event will teach attendees what Human Trafficking is, how to identify signs of trafficking, and how to help in the fight against trafficking. Presenters include a representative from DCF, a survivor of trafficking, and a representative from Law Enforcement.
Event Date:
January 11th, 2019
7PM- 9PM
Location:
Marcus Pointe Baptist Church Student Center
6205 North W Street
Pensacola, FL 32505
Contact:
Therese Moses
(850) 595-8820 ext.226
Free for all to attend. No registration required.
Human Trafficking Symposium in Lake City
Dec 21, 2018
This symposium will provide information on building rapport with HT youth, recognizing signs of trafficking, and how to address trafficking. An HT survivor will be speaking at this event as well.
Veraunda Jackson, who is with DCF and works with child survivors of Human Trafficking, will share skills and techniques for building rapport with Human Trafficking youth. Anorine Ledet, who is a Special Agent for the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, will provide information on recognizing different forms of trafficking in day to day life and what to do in when it is recognized. A survivor of Human Trafficking will share her story and what she’s doing now to help combat trafficking.
Event Date:
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
9am to 3:30pm
Event Location:
Columbia County School Board Auditorium
372 West Duval Street
Lake City, Florida 32055
Contact:
Lesley Hersey
(904) 624-2804
CEU’s available for $15 upon request.
Northeast Florida Human Trafficking Coalition Annual Gathering
Dec 21, 2018
Annual HT gathering that provides the opportunity to network with other HT professionals and includes a program containing information about HT.
Plan to attend the NE FL Human Trafficking 2019 Gathering on January 24 at FSCJ South’s Wilson Center for the Arts. Networking with Coalition organizations begins at 5:30 and the formal program in the theatre starts at 6:30. Light refreshments will be served.
Event Date:
Thursday January 24th, 2019
5:30-6:30PM:
Networking with local agencies, organizations and Coalition members
6:30PM:
Program in theatre
Location:
Florida State College at Jacksonville South Campus
Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts
11901 Beach Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32246
Contact:
DJJ Human Trafficking Lunch and Learn
Dec 19, 2018
This training is designed to give attendees an overview of human trafficking and the DJJ's role in the anti-trafficking movement. Attendees will learn trafficking definitions, the prevalence of trafficking in Florida and the nation, trafficking warning signs, and what to do if they suspect someone might be a victim of trafficking.
This training provides an overview of human trafficking. Participants may register to attend in-person or via webinar. Click on the flyer above to register for the webinar, or contact Jon Howard with any questions or to register to attend in person. Please RSVP by January 9th, 2019.
Contact:
Jon Howard
Event Date:
January 11th, 2019
12-1:15PM
In-Person Location:
DJJ Alexander Building Training Center
2020 Capital Circle Southeast
Tallahassee, FL 32399
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Awards Juvenile Justice Teacher of the Year
Dec 19, 2018
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice honored Dan Wynne with the Juvenile Justice Teacher of the Year Award during a ceremony at the Restoring Hope Training Summit in Orlando.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 31, 2018
CONTACT: Amanda Slama
(850) 717-2710
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Awards Juvenile Justice Teacher of the Year
Orlando, Fla. –The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice honored Dan Wynne with the Juvenile Justice Teacher of the Year Award during a ceremony at the Restoring Hope Training Summit in Orlando.
Mr. Wynne is a language arts and social studies teacher at Miami Youth Academy (MYA), a juvenile residential commitment program serving males in Miami-Dade County. Mr. Wynne has worked in the education field for 29 years and has been teaching at MYA for the past eight years.
Mr. Wynne has implemented several academic programs at MYA including the Exchange for Change program, a collaboration with the University of Miami (UM) where MYA students participate in pen pal and in-person writing exchanges with UM students. Mr. Wynne has also implemented Conversations with Poets where nationally recognized and published poets are invited to participate in an interactive deep-dive into poetry with students.
Mr. Wynne received accolades from both his colleagues and students at the program. “My teacher has a very passionate and considerate relationship with the students to unleash their full and untampered talent and always comes to work with a positive attitude and a smile on his face to greet us in the early mornings,” said one MYA student. “He understands the struggle and troubling behaviors of young students and their situations and helps every student at their own pace.”
“Mr. Wynne is a veteran educator who challenges his students to meet their full potential while also empowering them to seek a bright and productive future,” said DJJ Interim Secretary Tim Niermann. “Mr. Wynne is able to make an impact on his students through his work not only in education but also within the community as the youth transition out of the program.”
The finalists were honored at the inaugural DJJ Restoring Hope Training Summit where each received a medal and monetary award from the Florida Juvenile Justice Association.
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Gov. Scott Appoints Two to Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention State Advisory Group
Dec 19, 2018
Today, Governor Rick Scott announced the appointment of Alyssa Beck and Kevin Higgins II to the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention State Advisory Group.
Gov. Scott Appoints Two to Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention State Advisory Group
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Rick Scott announced the appointment of Alyssa Beck and Kevin Higgins II to the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention State Advisory Group.
Beck, 23, of Jacksonville is an advocacy specialist with the Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center. She is appointed for a term beginning November 4, 2018, and ending at the pleasure of the Governor.
Higgins, 24, of Riveria Beach is a former security specialist with PSC Security Services. He is appointed for a term beginning November 4, 2018, and ending at the pleasure of the Governor.
The appointments are pursuant to federal statute 42. U.S.C. 5633, which requires at least one-fifth of members to be under the age of 24 at the time of appointment and/or have been under the juvenile justice system.
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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE (850) 717-9282 |
Human Trafficking Investigations and Prosecutions Training
Dec 14, 2018
This course will assist law enforcement officers, first responders, educators, and social service providers. It will explore investigations, prosecutions, victims’ perspectives, and effective responses to human trafficking.
Human Trafficking Investigations and Prosecutions Training Course for Public Safety Officials and Social Service Providers in Tampa, FL
This course will assist law enforcement officers, first responders, educators, and social service providers. It will explore investigations, prosecutions, victims’ perspectives, and effective responses to human trafficking. During this training course there will be presentations by the United States Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Homeland Security Investigations, Local Law Enforcement and Service Providers. This training is being offered at No Cost and is delivered by the support of Office for Victims of Crimes, Saint Petersburg College – Center for Public Safety Innovation, Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (Hillsborough County) and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
Contact:
Joseph Smith, Community Outreach Specialist, US Attorney's Office
813-301-3061
Event Date:
January 23rd, 2019
9AM - 4PM
Location:
Children's Board of Hillsborough County
1009 East Palm Avenue
Tampa, FL 33605
Free for all to attend
Juvenile Arrests in Florida Drop to Historic 43-Year Low
Dec 10, 2018
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice announced today that the number of juvenile arrests continued to decline in 2017-2018, according to the latest delinquency report released by the agency.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 10, 2018
CONTACT:
Amanda Slama
amanda.slama@djj.state.fl.us
(850) 717-2710
Juvenile Arrests in Florida Drop to Historic 43-Year Low
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice announced today that the number of juvenile arrests continued to decline in 2017-2018, according to the latest delinquency report released by the agency. Juvenile felony arrests dropped 10 percent over the last fiscal year and overall juvenile arrests declined eight percent in the same time frame. These declines continue the multi-year trend of fewer arrests, with a five-year decline of 24 percent, resulting in the lowest number of juvenile arrests in 43 years.
Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Interim Secretary Timothy Niermann said, “The decreases we are seeing in juvenile arrests are due to the collaborative efforts of our dedicated DJJ staff, law enforcement partners, and community stakeholders. Helping young people turn around their lives for the better is what we all strive for every day, and we remain focused on investing in our youth and helping them achieve a brighter future.”
The current report, covering a five-year period, also shows a 13 percent decrease in armed robbery, a 20 percent decrease in burglary arrests, and a 42 percent decrease in stolen property arrests. Overall misdemeanor offenses also decreased by nine percent during the last fiscal year.
The five counties with the largest populations in Florida continue to show decreases in juvenile arrests over the last fiscal year. The county demonstrating the largest drop was Orange with a 19 percent decrease, followed by Miami Dade with a 16 percent reduction, Hillsborough County with an eight percent decrease, Broward with a seven percent decrease, and Pinellas County with a two percent decline in juvenile arrests.
The Department of Juvenile Justice has worked to transform the juvenile justice system in Florida by implementing comprehensive, data-driven reforms. As a result, Florida has been recognized as a national leader in innovative, evidence-based approaches to juvenile justice and in providing services for young people and families.
To view the full report, click HERE.
Building Bridges to End Human Trafficking Community Networking Event
Dec 10, 2018
A community networking event for those providing services to victims of human trafficking. This event will be held at Happy Motoring in Tallahassee, FL. More details to come in January.
This is a community networking event to allow those providing services to victims of human trafficking with a chance to exchange resources and information. Attendance is limited to 50 guests. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.
Event Date:
Thursday February 28th, 2019
5PM-7PM
Location:
Happy Motoring
1215 South Adams Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32301
Please RSVP by February 27th