Research has consistently shown that young individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are over-represented in the criminal justice system. One of the biggest reasons for this is that autistic youth can become dangerous and violent, even towards police officers, teachers, and caregivers, when they are struggling to cope or understand a situation.
When situations break down into violence, there’s often little choice but to seek punitive action, but a judge in Las Vegas is hoping to change all of that by providing an alternative.
Judge Suny Bailey created an innovative program designed specifically for autistic youth and their families. The program has been operating successfully since 2018 and has already diverted countless youngsters from the criminal justice system. The program is called the Detention Alternative for Autistic Youth Court, or DAAY Court. The court is located in Nevada’s 8th Judicial District and is currently the first and only court in the United States that focuses exclusively on young autistic individuals.
The goal of this court is to redirect autistic children who would receive a criminal sentence to treatment programs instead. To ensure this process goes smoothly, the courts evaluate each youth to identify which ones are most at-risk and would benefit most from treatment.
One thing that sets this courtroom apart from others is that it is run mainly by volunteers. The main people who operate DAAY court are social workers, attorneys, family members, and psychologists who have come together to make this diversionary program a reality. Together, these individuals listen to the stories of families coping with autism, coordinate psychiatric treatment, place children in behavioral modification programs, and help connect students and families with training that can help them avoid similar situations in the future.
According to Judge Bailey, many of the autistic youth who wind up in DAAY court are accused of battery against a family member or community member. A huge majority of these individuals have never had access to autism treatment that could help them manage their autistic traits in a safer, healthier, and more proactive way.
Youth in DAAY court are typically referred to ABA therapy treatment services. So far, the program has a recidivism rate of under 10%, meaning 90% of the youth complete treatment program and do not reoffend.
Could Your Autistic Child Benefit from ABA Therapy in Las Vegas?
Here at the Nevada Autism Center, our team strives to empower autistic youth to help them seek independence, autonomy, and success through the use of ABA therapy treatment. Our center focuses on personalizing every child’s experience so that they can feel comfortable enough to grow and thrive. We offer family guidance, summer camps, model classrooms, community support, and school readiness programs. Our therapists will help your child learn adaptive, daily living and coping skills while also helping guide them toward shedding maladaptive behaviors.
If you’re interested in learning more about our programs and services, then give our office a call now at (702) 660-2005. You can also get started on the enrollment process by filling out our online form.
