Community advocates call for special session to tackle youth crime – NBC Connecticut

Over the past year, youth crime has hit many cities in Connecticut. Today, a community rights group is calling for legislative action.

Safe Streets Connecticut met at the Legislative Office Building on Monday, calling on state leaders and lawmakers to hold a special session to discuss the issue. They were joined by several state officials from both sides of the aisle.

“No one speaks for the average citizen. We are the voice of the average citizen, ”said Safe Streets spokesperson John Porriello.

Gathered on the steps of the LOB, Safe Streets called on lawmakers to come together for a special session devoted to crimes committed by minors.

“At the moment, this problem is being ignored,” Porriello said. “We can no longer ignore this problem. “

From stolen cars to burglaries, crimes committed by young people have hit towns across the state, sparking widespread concern. Representatives, both Democrats and Republicans, joined Safe Streets Connecticut, supporting the idea of ​​a special session.

“There has been an escalation of homicides in the city. There have been car thefts which degenerated into kidnappings. Firearms involved and firearms involved, ”said Rep. Kerry Wood, D-Newington.

Rep. Tom Delnicki, R-South Windsor, agrees.

“It’s not a city problem. It’s not a suburban problem. It’s not a rural problem. It’s a Connecticut problem,” Delnicki said.