A report by the Vera Institute of Justice takes a close look at "status offenses," behaviors that are only illegal because of a person's status as a minor, such as truancy, running away, or violating curfew. The report shows that in 2014 there were 100,100 known cases in which youth were sent to court for status offenses, and that schools with more African American students were more likely to suspend and expel kids for acting out, while schools with fewer African American students are more likely to respond with behavioral treatment and special education programs. The report also explores what can be done to shift away from a punitive approach through status offense reform.
