BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN).....To Masten District Councilwoman Zeneta Everhart everyone deserves a second chance.
Especially Buffalo's youth, says the Common Council President Pro Tempore.
That's why Everhart is championing what she calls the "Drive Forward Initiative", where Buffalo youth arrested on auto theft charges may have the option to enter an automotive repair program through the Northland Workforce Training Center - a move that could lead to a full time job at a local auto dealership or repair shop.
The program would target first time offenders.
"Everyone deserves a second chance," Everhart said. "We were all young once and made stupid mistakes."
Everhart, who is working with University District Councilman Rasheed N.C. Wyatt, is focusing on the many details that need to be addressed before the program becomes a reality.
Everhart gave a brief overview at the Buffalo Common Council's July 28 Community Development Committee meeting. Her fellow council members gave initial approval pending final details.
"Many of these kids aren't stealing the cars for money," Everhart said. "They are doing it for the thrill and to post it on social media."
Everhart said the technology need to break into and steal a modern car requires a fair amount of automotive understanding.
"These kids aren't dumb, we just need to redirect their intelligence," Everhart said.
Many details need to be worked out including getting sign offs from the Buffalo Police Department and Erie County District Attorney's offices. Auto theft is a larceny.
Everhart said she expects to spend the summer and fall months working on the program.
If everything falls into place, the program could welcome its first students by late 2027.
"You have to consider this another tool in the toolbox," Everhart said.
Zeneta Everhart pushing for new, second chance program for Buffalo youth
Zeneta Everhart pushing for new, second chance program for Buffalo youth
