By Bob Katzen
Another measure before the Judiciary Committee would direct the state’s courts to make all reasonable efforts to ensure that victims of crimes perpetrated by juvenile offenders receive restitution, and that juvenile offenders be required to repair, replace or otherwise make restitution for any damage or loss caused by their crime.
This bill also requires that the juvenile court make restitution a condition of release, placement or parole for the juvenile offender.
“Crime victims face many hardships, not only as they deal with the emotional toll of the crime itself, but also with the related financial repercussions,” said sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading). “We should not compound their suffering by adding to their financial burden but should instead make it easier for them to receive restitution, which is what [my bill] seeks to do.”