Clarence calls for state action on repeat juvenile offenders

Clarence, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Town of Clarence Town Board has adopted a resolution urging the New York State Legislature to amend portions of New York's criminal procedure laws governing juvenile offenders, and restore greater judicial discretion in cases involving repeat offenders.

The action is believed to make the town the first municipality in Western New York to formally call for such legislative changes.

"Our community has witnessed the impact that repeat juvenile offending can have on residents, victims, businesses, and law enforcement," said Clarence Town Supervisor Patrick Casilio. "This resolution is not about giving up on young people. It is about giving judges the tools and discretion necessary to intervene effectively before criminal behavior escalates and more victims are created."

The resolution was adopted in response to growing public concern over juvenile crime, including the increase in vehicle thefts and repeat offenses in Clarence, as well as other affected communities throughout Erie County and the Western New York region.

Town officials stated the resolution seeks a balanced approach that supports rehabilitation, while ensuring courts have the ability to intervene appropriately when youthful offenders repeatedly engage in criminal conduct.

Under current law, many adolescent offender cases are subject to removal to Family Court, with limited judicial flexibility in certain circumstances. The Town Board believes judges should be empowered to consider an offender's complete history, pattern of behavior, prior interventions, and risk to public safety when making decisions regarding repeat offenders.

"Meaningful change in Albany often begins at the local level," Casilio said. "We are encouraging every city, town, village, and county legislature that shares these public safety concerns to join this effort. A unified voice from local governments will send a powerful message that our communities are seeking practical reforms that protect the public while helping young people get back on the right path."

The resolution calls upon state leaders to review and amend existing statutes to:

• Restore greater judicial discretion in cases involving repeat juvenile offenders;
• Strengthen accountability and opportunities for meaningful intervention;
• Enhance public safety protections for residents and victims;
• Ensure that repeat criminal conduct receives an appropriate and effective response.

In addition to transmitting the resolution to state lawmakers, the town is launching a municipal outreach effort and inviting municipalities throughout Erie County and Western New York to adopt similar resolutions.