Police: Peer Jury
What is Peer Jury?
The Peer Jury program provides selected juvenile offenders with a meaningful and remedial alternative program to Juvenile Court. 6 Peer Jurors (along with an adult monitor) hear cases and determine a consequence for the offender. Peer Jury does not determine guilt or innocence. A case is only sent to the Peer Jury to be heard by the Peer Jury when:
- The offender admits having committed the offense.
- The responsible police officer determines that Peer Jury is appropriate for the youth offender.
- The offender and his/her parent or guardian consent in writing to participate in the program and sign a Waiver of Liability and Confidentiality.
History of Peer Jury The peer jury concept is being used nationally! The following history shows how peer jury started in this area.
In October 1994, the Community Education Advisory Council of Township High School District 211 conducted a Community Improvement Survey that coincided with the “Make A Difference Day.” The number one concern which District 214 Community reported was crime, both juvenile and adult.
At the Advisory council in April 1995, Dick Penley discussed the Peer Jury Program concept presented at a national youth service learning conference.
In May 1995 Gerald Chapman interviewed Myrna Goldsmith, Peer Jury Coordinator for the Circuit Court of Cook County, prepared a report describing the program, and recommended to the Advisory Council involvement in such a program.
Aurelia Pucinski, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County and Myrna Goldsmith, Peer Jury Coordinator, were invited to make a presentation at the June Community Education Advisory Council meeting. The agenda was devoted entirely to a discussion of the Peer Jury Program. Area police departments were invited to attend the meeting.
Based on the meeting, a task force was developed to explore how the Advisory Council could provide support to municipalities planning to adopt the Peer Jury Program. Area municipalities began implementing the Peer Jury Program in their towns.
The Hoffman Estates Peer Jury has been running since the 1980's.
How do I volunteer as a Peer Juror?
Peer Jury now meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month between 6:45 and 9:00 PM at the Hoffman Estates Police Department.
Download an application and mail to:
Hoffman Estates Police Department
1200 Gannon Dr
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
c/o Det Gad
Once the application is received, the teen will be contacted by one of the adult coordinators of peer jury. An interview will be scheduled by which it will be determined whether the teen is appropriate for the Peer Jury Program.
For additional questions, please contact Detective Gad at 847-882-1818. Thank you for your interest in participating in the Peer Jury Process. |
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