Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 12, 2006

Collin County announces the formalization of Teen Court

(McKinney, TX) – Collin County has become the largest county in Texas with a county-wide teen court program. As of this week, all five justices of the peace have pledged their support; and cases across the county are now being referred to the program.

Teen court is a program authorized by the Texas legislature that manages cases with teens who have committed real crimes. Once a case is referred to teen court, it is heard by a jury of teens who issues a sentence to the defendant. If the defendant successfully completes the program, the teen’s case is dismissed without having to pay a large fine, and the charge does not appear on the teen’s criminal record. Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3-2, Judge John Payton has hosted a teen court program in Precinct 3 for 16 years.

“Alternative sentencing provides an excellent resource for both the courts and the people of Collin County,” explains Judge John Payton. “Teen court enables first time offenders to get a real feel of what it is like to be sentenced by a jury of their peers. This creates a feeling of responsibility and ownership in one’s sentence rather than a parent just paying a fine.”

Teen court relies on volunteer teens to serve as attorneys and jurors. Coordinator Justin Nichols will soon visit local high schools and student organizations to recruit teens who are interested in participating. “Not only will participants be exposed to a real life look at the criminal justice system, but they will develop critical thinking skills, learn how to work as a team, develop public speaking skills, and engage in a social setting that is safe, uplifting and fun,” says Nichols.

According to a study conducted by the Urban Institute in 2002, defendants who complete teen court are half as likely to re-offend in the future as teens that go through normal dissipative processes.

“The Court is excited to offer the teen court alternative,” says Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Judge Paul Raleeh. “This is yet another sentencing program that has a well established track record. Teen court will become my first choice for all first time juvenile offenders who qualify.”

Volunteer recruitment is now underway. Teenagers between the ages of 13-18 interested in participating may contact Justin Nichols at 972-548-4654 or teencourt@collincountytx.gov.

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