Alternative to prosecution to be discussed at Oct. 26 forum

Alternative to prosecution to be discussed at Oct. 26 forum by Chris Dettro

To read this article on the State Journal-Register website, click here.

A Springfield group aimed at building racial unity is set to discuss “restorative justice” as an alternative to young people entering the prison system.

Restorative justice, a phrase most commonly used in the juvenile justice system, is a theory that emphasizes cooperation among all stakeholders to repair the harm caused by criminal behavior. It is an alternative to simply punishing the offender.

The group Springfield Race Unity has scheduled a meeting for 5 p.m. Monday at Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., to discuss possibilities.