Lancaster Township is host to the Youth Aid Panel under the supervision of the District Attorney's Office. The Youth Aid Panel is a diversionary program for juveniles who have committed first-time non-violent criminal offenses.  It is designed to encourage juveniles to choose a more productive path in life, while reinforcing that there are consequences for their actions.  Juvenile offenders are referred to the Panel by a Lancaster Township Police Officer.  If accepted into the program, the juvenile will be required to complete tasks assigned by the Panel.  Such tasks can include community service, counseling, writing essays, drug screening, and more.  Successful participants will forgo criminal charges for the offense they committed.  

The Youth Aid Panel consists of three (3) Lancaster Township resident volunteers with one (1) Lancaster Township Police liaison to the Panel.  The volunteers are trained by the District Attorney's Office and have backgrounds in areas such as law enforcement, juvenile probation, criminal law, and other relevant fields.  The Youth Aid Panel is held once a month at the Lancaster Township municipal building.  

If you would like more information about the Youth Aid Panel, or if you would like to become a Panel member, visit Youth Aid Panel | Lancaster County, PA - Official Website for more information.