Agencies praised for beating government youth justice targets

Criminal justice agencies have been congratulated by the
government for reducing the amount of time it takes to deal with a
persistent young offender.

In 1996, dealing with a persistent young offenders took an
average of 142 days. But, in the fourth quarter of 2001, the time
has been reduced to 68 days, which is 3 days below the target and
the second consecutive quarter at or below the 71 day target.

Home office minister Beverley Hughes has congratulated the Youth
Justice Board and other criminal justice agencies for their
continued efforts in delivering this pledge: “This shows what can
be done with determination, goodwill and good organisation. And it
brings a real benefit to the public.

“Young people who commit crime are brought to justice more
quickly, and victims and local people can have confidence that the
system delivers results,” she added.