Youngsters sometimes push boundaries. That kind of comes with their age. But sometimes they take it too far and they commit a criminal offence or violation. This can for example be vandalism, shoplifting, driving without a driver's licence or skipping school.
As of August 2020, juvenile criminal law is effective in the Caribbean Netherlands. Youngsters under 18 years old can be sentenced for offences. When it concerns petty crimes however, the police can decide to send youngsters to Halt. There they are given the opportunity to rectify their criminal behaviour. Halt aims to stop transgressive behaviour among youth as early as possible by means of conversations, work and learning assignments, and offering apologies. Ultimately to prevent repetitive behaviour and getting a criminal record. This is better for the youngster in question and society!
Halt is part of the Guardianship Council Caribbean Netherlands (Voogdijraad Caribisch Nederland). They work closely together with the Dutch Caribbean Police Force (Korps Politie Caribisch Nederland, KPCN) and the Public Prosecution Service (Openbaar Ministerie, OM).
