Program Overview

The Western Springs Youth Peer Jury has helped guide area adolescents since 1997 by providing non-violent, first time juvenile offenders with a second chance. The Police Department's State-certified officers and adult volunteer coordinators run the program, and teens serve as peer jurors, hearing cases referred by the Police Department. Each jury is comprised of eight teenagers. The jurors alternate and a pool is always available so jurors do not hear cases involving friends or acquaintances. Cases before the jury range from curfew to misdemeanors and selected felonies.

The Youth Peer Jury is a second chance for first time offenders, where they may avoid juvenile court and hopefully turn a negative situation into a positive one. Jurors and offenders have benefited from the program. Jurors feel good about contributing to the community and see firsthand how poor decisions can lead to serious consequences. This is an excellent opportunity for youth to get involved in the community.

Join the Peer Jury

The Youth Peer Jury Program is actively recruiting all interested youth between the ages of 13 and 18 to become peer jurors. They must live in Western Springs and attend either Lyons Township High School or Nazareth Academy. Applications can be picked up at the Police Department or by contacting Sgt. Terry Madler.

The Youth Peer Jury Program is also seeking community service sites that are non-profit organizations.

For more information, please contact Sgt. Terry Madler.