Youth in conflict with the law are dealt with under the federal legislation called the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA).
The YCJA deals with youth between the ages of 12 to 17 years of age and provides an alternative to youth incarceration. Youths receive counseling and education while providing restitution to the victim, instead of the normal criminal court process. This option is available to youth who have minimal involvement with the police, provided the offence is non-violent. Examples include shoplifting and minor damage to property.
The youth services section of the Chatham Kent Police Service consists of the Youth Coordinator, Constable Kyle Wright, who monitors youth investigations and diverts youth (when appropriate) to agencies such as the Mental Health Addictions Program, Restorative Justice Chatham-Kent, and Walpole Island New Directions.
Community Youth Agencies
Agencies involved in providing youth diversions:
- Mental Health Addictions Program
- Restorative Justice Chatham-Kent
- Walpole Island New Directions
Programs
LINCK
The Mission of LINCK is “strong connections for a better future”. Linck Child, Youth and Family Supports (Linck) is an accredited multi-service agency that provides developmental, mental health, youth justice, and protection services to children, youth, and their families. Regulated by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) and governed by the Ontario Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA).
Phone: (519) 352-0440
Website: https://www.ckcs.on.ca
Restorative Justice Chatham-Kent (RJCK)
An organization dedicated to repairing broken relationships among young people provides restorative justice solutions for children ages 12 to 17. It focuses on fostering healing and understanding the consequences of their actions.
New Directions / Naaknigewnan, the Restorative Justice Project
Two youth prevention programs—New Directions and Restorative Justice Project—are funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services. New Directions offers culturally tailored after-school programs to help young students plan their lives away from criminal activity, using referrals from police, school officials, service providers, and parents. RJP uses Naaknigewnan (Anishinaabeg laws) for healing justice through restorative practices with facilitators trained in community healing.
Phone: (519) 627-3907
Western Area Youth Services
Western Area Youth Services in Chatham provides a program focused on reducing recidivism through cognitive-behavioural principles and interventions. They offer tailored support, clear expectations, and specific offenses with a focus on preventing future legal issues. It’s an effective, economical alternative for young people.
Address: 740 Richmond Street, Chatham
Extrajudicial Measures (EJM) Program
Extrajudicial Measures is a community-based program for youth aged 12 to 17. These youth are provided an opportunity to attend groups or individual learning programs that are designed to target criminogenic factors, thereby reducing their risk for further involvement in the judicial system. This program is one of the options police can consider when dealing with youth in trouble with the law. Pre-charge status is a requirement for participation in this diversion program.