Juvenile Arrestee Screening (ACCESS)

In an effort to create better opportunities for positive childhood outcomes and ensure the safety and security of juveniles taken into custody by the Park Forest Police Department, a safety screener titled ACCESS (Adverse Childhood Critical Events and Safety Screener pictured below) is implemented in partnership with the Urban Youth Trauma Center. The screener, conducted by a certified Juvenile Officer, asks juveniles in the custody of the police department a series of 10 questions about life conditions which may place the juvenile at increased risk. For any answer indicating the presence of such conditions, officers take action to ensure the safety of the juvenile or to ensure resources are provided. Resources are provided through a variety of organizations, including Aunt Martha’s Youth Services, Illinois’ Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) program, and the Department of Children and Family Services.