No, it probably started with small stuff, grew to something bigger, and became a way to get something with little work or other commitment and, finally, a way of life. At what time could that life have been changed, straightened out? Would an intervention of some kind have changed what was to become a "life of crime?" Most people wouldn't know exactly when, but most would agree that it could have been possible. It's quite likely, in fact, that now is the time to get someone else involved, even if you're only a little suspicious. Could you be wrong? Could you be right? Find out. So browse and explore this site to become empowered and to GET HELP NOW. Shoplifting can easily be perceived as being victimless. No one is clearly hurt. The loss to the retailer seems trivial. Especially after the first time, the reward to the shoplifter can seem great without a lot of guilt. That's why swift and decisive action is necessary. Just the presence of a third party can often bring a shoplifter back from the fantasy that what he or she is doing is okay. Browse and explore this site to become empowered and to GET HELP NOW. When you support early Youth Intervention Programs in your community, we all change for the better.

"For the sixth consecutive year, the number of juvenile prosecutions have dropped in Dakota County. I believe this is a direct result of having quality early intervention and prevention programs operating within the County. 

"I am extremely worried about what may happen if funding for youth intervention programs is reduced or eliminated because it will surely result in more youth entering the costly juvenile justice system. I know these are difficult times for the State and very tough funding decisions are going to have to be made, but I strongly recommend trying to find a way to keep early intervention services intact. We know from both research and our own experience that these programs save money and reduce crime."

James C. Backstrom
Dakota County Attorney