The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to establish mandatory dispositions for youths aged fourteen and older who are adjudicated delinquent for acts that would be classified as felony theft or vandalism if committed by an adult. It mandates that such youths be committed to the legal custody of the Department of Youth Services for secure confinement for a minimum of nine months, with maximum periods varying based on the offense's severity. The bill emphasizes the court's obligation to impose these mandatory commitments, thereby limiting judicial discretion, while also clarifying that the court retains control over the duration of the commitment, which cannot exceed the child's twenty-first birthday.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for community control conditions, requiring the court to impose specific sanctions such as maintaining contact with a supervising officer and completing community service. It emphasizes the importance of victim impact statements in determining dispositions and establishes a framework for warning parents about potential criminal charges related to their child's truancy. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Youth Services in managing committed children, including the preparation of treatment plans and regular progress reports, while ensuring that the rights and rehabilitation of the child are prioritized throughout the judicial process.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2152.16, 2152.17, 2152.19, 2152.22, 5139.01, 5139.05, 5139.06, 5139.20, 5139.35, 5139.51