**Increase in Juvenile Crime by 4% in Baja California**
In Baja California, the involvement of minors in criminal activities has increased by 4% over recent years, according to official data. Between 2022 and 2024, 148 teenagers aged 14 to 17 have been detained by the Secretariat of Citizen Security. These arrests encompass both federal and local offenses, as recorded on the national transparency page.
In 2022, 21 minors were detained for various crimes, including drug-related offenses in cities such as Tijuana and Mexicali. The following year, 2023, saw two more arrests for similar charges, and up until 2024, an additional two arrests have been reported. Firearm possession has also been notable, with 18 detentions in 2022 across Mexicali and Tijuana. This number rose to 20 in 2023 and has recorded six so far in 2024, with incidents distributed among Ensenada, Mexicali, Tecate, and Tijuana. Drug dealing saw significant numbers, with arrests rising from 17 in 2022 to 27 in 2023, and 19 in 2024.
The issue extends to other crimes like vehicle theft, illegal deprivation of liberty, and violations of arms laws. With these compelling statistics, the involvement of minors in high-impact crimes saw a 17% increase from 2022 to 2023, followed by an 11% decrease into 2024. Despite the fluctuations, the overall trend from 2022 to 2024 shows a distinct rise of 4%.
Authorities attribute the rise in minor involvement to several factors, including the targeting of established criminals and the recruitment of younger individuals by gangs. There is also a highlighted lack of opportunities that drive youth towards these paths. Efforts are being made to focus on prevention, working with educational and cultural institutions, and initiatives such as the “Prevenir es Ganar” campaign aim to educate students on the risks of criminal involvement.
—
**Secondary Article: Initiatives to Combat Juvenile Crime in Baja California**
Efforts to address the growing issue of youth crime in Baja California are being bolstered by new initiatives focused on prevention and education. The government has launched outreach programs targeting young people in schools, offering guidance on avoiding criminal activities and understanding the consequences of substance abuse.
Influencers and key figures, such as Juan Pablo Escobar, are engaging with students through talks and workshops, bringing real-world experiences and counter-narratives to the allure of crime. Meanwhile, local law enforcement is coordinating with community organizations to create safe spaces and provide constructive outlets for at-risk youth.
These programs aim to disrupt the recruitment efforts of criminal groups targeting young people, offering positive alternatives and support systems. As the state grapples with the increase in juvenile crime, these combined efforts emphasize the importance of early intervention and community engagement in guiding youth towards a safer, more promising future.