Under new legislation that was instituted on Friday, adults who involve children in criminal activities may be subjected to a maximum of five years in prison. This law, known as the Criminal Justice (Engagement of Children in Criminal Activity) Act 2024, came into effect recently. It criminalises actions of adults who force or induce children into partaking in any form of crime.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee noted that nearly 1,000 children, especially those from challenging circumstances, are in danger of being coerced into minor theft or drug peddling by adults. Convictions under this novel law could result in up to a year’s imprisonment if found guilty on account summary and a maximum of five years if indicted.
The law is a recognition of the enduring consequences and damage inflicted on children by their involvement in criminal offences. It’s among a series of regulations advanced by the Department of Justice as part of the Youth Justice Strategy 2021-2027 striving to curb youthful delinquency.
The department under this strategy has initiated an “intensive intervention pilot” named the Greentown programme. Its focal point is to deter organised crime units that tempt children into crime, and enhance results for children who are either in danger of or already active in criminal networks.
According to Ms McEntee, this ground-breaking legislation serves as a significant weapon for Gardaí in the battle against criminal networks and tracking down adults exploiting susceptible young individuals to keep themselves out of trouble. The law criminalises adults who are destroying young lives and communities by coercing or enticing them into criminal behaviours.
She further emphasised that while crimes may begin on a small scale, they often escalate into serious offences, trapping the young person in a vortex of debt, fear, and bullying. Not only should law enforcement target those causing injury but also strive to reverse the damage.
She acclaimed the Greentown Programme for offering “intensive support and interventions” for young individuals either at risk or already under the influence of criminal networks. This included support for their growth, diversion from crime, and assistance to their families.
James Browne, the State Minister responsible for Youth Justice, advocates a comprehensive approach in addressing and diminishing juvenile delinquency. This encompasses the criminalisation of individuals who entice young people into illegal activities, establishment of favourable social opportunities for youth at risk, and rigorous interventions designed to better the future prospects of those already tangled in criminal behaviour.
Browne acknowledges the bitter truth that some youngsters end up in harmful situations due to the negative influences in their lives, such as a family member, neighbour or even a sibling, who exploit them. He affirms that this proposed legislation acknowledges this reality.
Often, the lure of potential wealth and status incites young people to engage in criminal activities, though this usually deteriorates into regrettable situations. The weighty consequences of a criminal conviction, which could significantly hinder the individual’s ability to travel abroad, attain education or employment, can potentially lead them down even more destructive paths.
The proposed legislation aims to protect future generations from manipulation and abuse at the hands of criminal gangs, as well as foster safer and stronger communities. The primary goal in addressing youth crime is to shield young individuals from the criminal justice system as much as possible. The legislation minimises the liability of offences committed by youngsters, avoiding additional consequences for children who are victims themselves, possibly having fallen prey to grooming.