On the heels of three juveniles being charged for breaking into Waldameer Park, federal data shows juvenile crime can follow seasonal trends, with big increases occurring during the summer months when school is out.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, juvenile crime tends to rise in the summer when school is out and daily routines change.
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This points to several factors, including more unsupervised time, increased social interaction and fewer structured activities once school lets out.
The data also shows differences in when crimes happen, youth offenses are more likely to occur during daytime hours in the summer compared to after school during the school year.
Experts said that makes summer a critical time for communities to step in with programs that keep kids engaged and off the streets.
“We try to encourage them, inspire them, and hopefully that they see the best of themselves rather than the worst of themselves,” said Kevin Gerard Stevenson, the coordinator for the Erie Blue Coats.
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“We hope that our presence will somehow infuse some added positivity to that area,” said Daryl Craig, the founder of the Erie Blue Coats.
Programs like the Erie Blue Coats focus on mentorship, structure, and community engagement, especially when school is not in session.
Keeping kids engaged during the summer can play a key role in preventing crime before it starts.
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