Reps. Pavalock-D’Amato, Betts, and Fishbein to Host Juvenile Justice Forum in Bristol

BRISTOL – Responding to the concerns of residents statewide who are alarmed by the rise in juvenile crime, most especially the rampant increase in incidents involving the theft of motor vehicles, State Representatives Cara Pavalock-D’Amato (R-77), Whit Betts (R-78), and Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee State Representative Craig Fishbein (R-90) will hold a Juvenile Justice Forum on Wednesday, November 10 at the Bristol Public Library.

Despite assurances from legislative Democrats that violent crime is down nationwide, the data clearly shows juvenile crime is on the rise in Connecticut, with car thefts committed by juvenile offenders having increased dramatically. House Republicans have repeatedly called upon the Majority Party to convene the legislature in special session – to at the very least debate the matter. However, only a handful of members from the Majority Party have supported those requests.

As part of the forum, Representatives Pavalock-D’Amato, Betts, and Fishbein will discuss changes to Connecticut laws over the last ten years, the most recent data, details of the House Republican’s plan to address the problem through legislation, and answer residents’ questions about this issue.

This stark rise in juvenile crime has alarmed residents from towns and cities throughout the state.  Car break-ins, car jackings, stolen vehicles and other property related crimes being committed by juveniles who, when caught, display little fear of prosecution.  For many homeowners and property owners, these crimes are personal, with many feeling like their voices aren’t being heard. Law enforcement officers have testified that they feel like their hands are tied, and juveniles are being released as quickly as they’re apprehended. Something must be done. Silence and denial are not the answer.

WHERE: Bristol Public Library
5 High St., Bristol, CT

WHEN: Wednesday, November 10^TH at 6:00 p.m.
*masks will be required per facility rules*

Anyone with additional questions regarding the Juvenile Justice Forum can contact the legislators via phone at their State Capitol office at 1-800-842-1423 or by email at Cara.Pavalock@housegop.ct.gov, Whit.Betts@housegop.ct.gov, and Craig.Fishbein@housegop.ct.gov.

Representative Pavalock-D’Amato represents the 77^th district covering Bristol.
Representative Betts represents the 78^h district covering Bristol, Plymouth, and Terryville.
Representative Fishbein represents the 90^th district covering Cheshire and Wallingford.