Governor Quinn Makes Appointments to Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission

CHICAGO – January 24, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today announced appointments to the Illinois Juvenile Justice Commission (IJJC). The IJJC is an advisory group to the Governor, the Illinois General Assembly and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) focusing on issues of juvenile justice and delinquency prevention programs and services.

“I am confident that this diverse group of leaders will work tirelessly to ensure that youth in the Illinois juvenile justice system receive the quality services and care they need,” said Governor Quinn. “I want to thank each of these members for answering the call to serve at-risk youth in our state.”

The IJJC develops the state’s juvenile justice plan for federal funds, determines spending priorities and ensures compliance with federal laws and regulations.

The Juvenile Justice Commission is comprised of members with expertise in both the public and private sectors. The members of the Commission are:

• Additional Biographical Information

Former Judge George Timberlake will be chairman of the Juvenile Justice Commission.

"The commission should – and can – be the voice of juvenile justice in Illinois,” said Judge Timberlake. “I look forward to working with the other commission members to lead the discussion about dedicating adequate resources, enacting needed reforms and producing positive outcomes for kids in Illinois’ juvenile justice system.”

The Commission includes: at least one locally-elected official and representation from law enforcement, juvenile justice agencies, public agencies concerned with delinquency prevention and treatment, non-profit agencies, volunteers who work with delinquents, youth workers involved with incarceration alternative programs; experts in addressing programs of violence, alternative care programs and in working with special-needs youth. In addition, the Commission includes five members under the age of 24.

“Society has a major interest in preventing youth from entering into delinquency and in ensuring that those who do become involved in the juvenile justice system emerge better off as a result of their experience,” University of Chicago Crime Lab Executive Director and JCC member Roseanna Ander said. “The Commission plays a vital role in working towards that end and I am honored to serve.”