Youth prosecutors sound alarm

Specialized prosecutors who deal with youth crime in canton Zurich say they’re concerned with a steady rise in cases.

In the past five years the number of minors being charged with a crime is up 25%. Compared to 2013, its up 60%. 

It’s still a mainly a male problem. Last year, over 88% of those charged were boys. But the year before that figure was 91% - so the girls are catching up. 

But it’s not necessarily linked to drugs. Narcotic offences are generally down on previous years – and possession of a small amount of cannabis is no longer a crime. 

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