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Cases involving youth with illegal sexual behaviors are managed through close collaboration among the Juvenile Department, the youth and their family, the District Attorney’s Office, Victim Advocates, schools, treatment providers, and other adults responsible for the youth’s supervision.
Review and Decision-Making Process
When a referral is received from law enforcement, it is reviewed by:
- Juvenile Department staff
- The District Attorney’s Office
- The Victim Advocates
Together, they determine an appropriate response based on:
- The nature of the alleged offense
- The youth’s living situation
- The perspective of the victim or victim’s family
- Available safeguards and supervision
Family involvement is essential, as youth typically need strong support and accountability from caregivers.
Evaluation and Treatment Planning
Youth participate in an evaluation conducted by a qualified mental health professional with specialized training. This evaluation helps guide decisions about supervision and treatment.
Based on the evaluation, family cooperation, and the youth’s willingness to take responsibility, a plan is developed that may allow the youth to:
- Remain in the community with intensive supervision, or
- Be placed in a more structured setting to receive treatment
Community-Based Supervision
When it is safe for a youth to remain in the community, supervision is often more intensive than in other juvenile cases. Supervision conditions may include:
- Individual, family, and group counseling
- Treatment focused on addressing harmful behaviors
- Polygraph testing as part of the treatment process
- Safety planning with schools and for community activities
Treatment typically occurs in stages and often takes 12–18 months to complete. Youth are expected to take full responsibility for their actions, including completing a clarification letter acknowledging the harm caused.
Residential Treatment Options
If a youth cannot safely remain in the community, or does not follow probation conditions, placement in a residential treatment program may be required. These programs provide:
- 24-hour supervision
- Specialized sexual behavior treatment
- Support for other behavioral or emotional needs
Sex Offender Registration
Youth adjudicated for felony-level sexual offenses may be required to register with the Oregon State Police. The decision if a youth will be granted relief from the duty to register is determined by the Court at a hearing that takes place near the end of a youth’s Court supervision. If Ordered, registration includes:
- Annual updates
- Notification of address, employment, or school changes
Two years after probation ends, eligible youth may request relief from registration through the court where the case was adjudicated.
