Young offenders are coming face-to-face with their victims and have a chance to help them in an innovative new scheme to stop them descending into a life of crime.
Police in Thurrock have launched their first Final Warning Panel, bringing admitted offenders who are on bail before a group including police - and the victims.
The victims can talk about the effect crimes have had on them and are also given the chance to ask the offenders questions.
Offenders are then offered the chance to try to help the victims in some way.
All panels include an inspector or a sergeant, a youth offending team officer, the investigating officer, the victim - or a representative - and the persistent offender with his or her parents.
The young offenders are offered help, perhaps in finding work or controlling anger, and their participation is assessed and a final warning given.
Offenders are then expected to participate in at least one meeting with the youth offending team police officer. Failure to attend may be cited if they later appear in court for another offence.
Published Friday, June 20, 2003
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