Prime Time Crime

Most parents worry about kids getting into trouble when the sun sets. But, studies show danger lurks long before the sun goes down.

The unsupervised after-school hours are the most dangerous for kids and nightmarish for law enforcement. Fifty percent of all juvenile crime happens between the end of school and eight p.m. Only one seventh of crime is committed in the late evening and early morning hours.

A University of Southern California study shows that unsupervised eighth graders are more likely to smoke pot, smoke cigarettes, and use drugs than kids who have supervision. Other studies show that younger kids that lack supervision are more likely to get poor grades and behave badly. Thirty five percent of kids are left alone by the time they are twelve.

The unsupervised time is unsafe not just because kids cause trouble, but because they are victims as well. Kid victims outnumber kids who commit the crimes by ten to one.

Juvenile homicide rates during the two o’clock to eight o’clock hours have doubled in the last decade convincing many policy makers and police that supervised after-school activities are not just helpful, but critical. “It helps keep kids off the streets and keep them away from trouble,” says Major William Ivey, a law enforcement officer.

Still, ping pong, pool, after school art classes and sports can’t be surrogate parents. Kids say they most often get in trouble because they have no one who cares about how they spend their unsupervised time. “Mostly kids don’t have anybody to talk to,” say sixteen year old Appollos. “I mean parents are just not there for them.”

What Parents Can Do:

Find “safe places” for kids. A safe place can be a boys or girls club, the YMCA, after school care, or a church or synagogue. Most important, make sure children have adequate supervision in whatever facility you choose.

Find after school activities. For kids who are too old for after-school are, find sports or an activity that will keep them interested and involved during the peak crime time hours.

Volunteer to be a supervisor at a safe place. If adults volunteer to watch out for kids at community organizations, those who have limited options can find safe places for kids without having to spend a lot of money.