Commissioner Erika Sugarmon is taking a bold step to improve the lives of juveniles in our justice system, and she needs your support. A critical ordinance is being presented to the Shelby County Board of Commissioners that could significantly impact how our community treats young offenders. Here's why you should act now:
The Ordinance at a Glance
This proposed amendment to Chapter 34 of the Shelby County Code aims to:
Ensure juveniles transferred to adult facilities receive the same level of services as those in the juvenile system
Provide equal access to educational programs, mental health services, and vocational training
Encourage the development of diversion programs and alternatives to adult court for juveniles
Implement data collection and monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of these changes
Why Your Support Matters
Protect our youth: Research shows that transferring juveniles to adult court can have harmful effects on their development and well-being.
Reduce recidivism: Juveniles who receive appropriate services are less likely to reoffend, making our community safer.
Invest in our future: By providing rehabilitation services, we're giving young offenders a chance to become productive members of society.
Please Show Up and Give Your Support!
Take Action Now
Show Up: Join the Commission's Meeting and pull a card. Speak up and speak out on Monday at 3:00 PM.
Speak Up: Email your Commissioner expressing your support for this ordinance. Find your Commissioner's contact information here: https://www.shelbycountytn.gov/1209/Meet-Your-Shelby-County-Commissioners
Spread the Word: Share this information with friends, family, and on social media to amplify our collective voice.
Don't let this opportunity pass by. Your involvement can make a real difference in the lives of young people in our community. Act now to support juvenile justice reform in Shelby County!
