The Vera Institute of Justice is honored to be selected by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to provide technical assistance and substantive analysis to support the important work of the New York State Commission on Youth, Public Safety and Justice. Announced in the Governor’s 2014 State of the States Address, the Commission is tasked with evaluating how to raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction and, as the Governor said, working “to make the system fairer and safer for our youth and communities.” New York remains one of only two states that charges all 16 and 17-year-olds as adults.

“Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, New York State has significantly reduced both juvenile crime and the incarceration of young people by focusing on interventions that address both the risks and needs of youth. Raising the age of juvenile jurisdiction is an important step in New York’s  progress and leadership with juvenile justice reform,” said Vera President Nicholas Turner.

Vera has significant experience in this area, including recent work to support the successful effort to raise the age in Connecticut. Its work in New York will be led by Theresa Sgobba, associate director and co-interim director of Vera’s Center on Youth Justice. “Science, best practice, and national consensus support this reform,” said Sgobba. “I look forward to working closely with the Commission to facilitate its work.”