### Increasing Criminal Activity Among Teens as Young as 14: Tijuana’s SSPCM Chief Calls for Action
Tijuana – The alarming trend of teenagers getting involved in high-impact crimes at younger ages has prompted calls for reinforced crime prevention efforts, according to Fernando Sánchez González, the Secretary of Citizen Security and Protection in Tijuana (SSPCM).
Fernando Sánchez González highlighted that minors as young as 14 have been apprehended for participating in serious criminal activities, not just minor offenses. “With much concern, we observe that more and more youths aged 14 to 15 are committing severe crimes, engaging in complex situations that go beyond simple theft or graffiti, extending even to organized crime,” he reported.
Sánchez González revealed that, on average, between four and ten minors of this age group are arrested, making them attractive targets for criminal groups. “The legal circumstances are different for minors compared to adults. Often, criminal organizations seek to recruit these young individuals for their illegal operations,” he explained.
The focus on crime prevention has been emphasized by the SSPCM, with an additional call for parents to supervise their children’s activities on social media and television, and to be aware of their social circles. Sánchez González pointed out that many of these young offenders come from dysfunctional households dealing with issues like alcoholism and addiction, which leads them to seek out gangs and engage in more serious criminal behavior over time.
“We must work continuously with young people on crime prevention. This must be a permanent effort to build a better society,” he stressed. He also highlighted the need to tackle the consumption of illegal substances to reduce the crime market in the region.
### Related News: Rising Crime Involvement of Teens Across the Region
According to a recent study, other cities are also experiencing an increase in criminal activity among youths. In Ciudad Juárez, police have reported a similar uptick in minor involvement in severe crimes. Municipal authorities are discussing new initiatives to preemptively address this disturbing trend.
Moreover, in Baja California, law enforcement agencies are collaborating on a cross-border initiative aiming to prevent organized crime groups from targeting younger recruits. This collaborative effort includes expanded community outreach programs and partnerships with educational institutions to provide alternative pathways for at-risk youth.
These initiatives reflect a broader recognition of the critical need to address juvenile crime at its roots, combining preventive measures with community and familial support systems. Experts believe that these comprehensive strategies are essential for stemming the tide of youth involvement in high-impact crimes.
### Conclusion
As the rise in youth delinquency becomes increasingly apparent, concerted efforts from law enforcement, communities, and families are essential. Strengthening crime prevention initiatives and providing support for at-risk youth could be the key to reversing this troubling trend and fostering a safer, more secure environment for future generations.