September 14th, 2023 by WCBC Radio

Maryland’s Department of Juvenile Services released a research brief showing that juvenile crime in the state has seen an increase over the last two years though the level of crime is below pre-pandemic levels.  The report also shows that youth are increasingly the victims of violent crimes. Baltimore City has seen increase in murder and attempted murder arrests for juveniles. To help with these challenges, DJS participated in Gov. Wes Moore's Safe Summer Initiative. It provided $5 million to 12 Maryland counties impacted by high gun violence. In response the DJS has also established improvement teams to tackle the issue of gun violence, invest in neighborhoods where crime rates are higher, and reforming the conditions and activities available in the juvenile service facilities throughout the state.