Statement from CCC Executive Director Jennifer March Regarding Federal Investigation of Treatment of Teenagers at Rikers Island

Released August 4, 2014

Contact: Elysia Murphy, (212) 673-1800 x18, emurphy@cccnewyork.org

“The Department of Justice investigation has uncovered clear evidence that treating children as adults in the legal system, often leading to victimization at the hands of adults in facilities like Rikers, has devastating consequences. Incarcerating youth with adults subjects young people to abuse and violence, and as U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara noted today, simply helps to “produce broken people” – tearing our communities apart and reducing public safety. As the state commission to “raise the age” deliberates on the best way to move New York State forward, it is critical that it ensures a path that treats all children as children – that is what’s best for public safety and our youth.”

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About CCC

Citizens’ Committee for Children of New York (CCC) is a privately funded, independent non-profit that educates and mobilizes New Yorkers to make the city a better place for children. Our advocacy combines public policy research and data analysis with citizen action. We cast light on the issues and identify and promote practical solutions to ensure that every New York City child is healthy, housed, educated and safe. For more information on CCC, visit CCC’s web site at www.cccnewyork.org.