Boise police announced the arrest of two 15-year-old boys who were involved in a summer crime spree. The boys stole iPhone chargers, knives, money and other items from unlocked cars, as well as causing damage to houses under construction and the metal grates at Lake Hazel Middle School. They youths were charged with multiple counts of burglary, attempted burglary, malicious injury to property and petit theft, and one count of grand theft. They were referred to the Ada County Juvenile Court Services diversion program, where they will be made to provide financial restitution to the people from whom they stole.

?Who is a juvenile offender in Idaho

Being arrested and charged with a crime is a serious matter at any age. When a minor is arrested, there are current and future ramifications. The state of Idaho has a juvenile correction system that seeks to hold juvenile offenders and their parents accountable for the crimes committed, while protecting the community. The goal of the system is for the offenders to acquire the necessary tools to turn their lives around so, if arrested, the youth may be referred to a diversion program.

The juvenile court has jurisdiction over anyone under the age of 18 who is charged with a crime. Exceptions include traffic violations and most violations of alcohol and tobacco use. Violent crimes such as murder, robbery, and rape will also not be prosecuted by the juvenile court system. If a person is arrested, the charges may be dealt with through a diversion program.

If you are a parent of a teenager charged with a juvenile offense, it can be a stressful and scary time. The understanding and seasoned Idaho criminal defense attorneys at Foley Freeman can assist in providing expert legal representation through each step of the process, so your child can grow from the experience and move forward in his/her life.