Several Juveniles Detained In El Paso Police Warrant Round Up

Several young men are in the juvenile justice system after a warrant round up led by the El Paso Police Department Friday. They’re all accused of serious crimes but none of them are even old enough to drive.

Among those tracked down by the Mission Valley Regional Command: An 11-year-old male detained for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. A 15-year-old male detained for Assault – Family Violence. A 13-year-old male detained for Assault – Family Violence. A 15-year-old male detained for Assault – Family Violence. A 13-year-old male detained for Aggravated Sexual Assault. A 12-year-old male detained for Aggravated Sexual Assault. A 15-year-old male detained for Burglary of Vehicle.

Police are not releasing the juveniles’ indentities at this time.

Carolyn Esparza, a founder and councelor for the non-profit group Community Solutions of El Paso, said it’s disheartening to see so many young people seemingly making poor choices.

“Once they get wrapped up in the juvenile system they think it’s cool,” said Esparza. “Then they start identifying with that train of thought as opposed to, say, the kids that are on track to go to college one day. So they start identifying with the bad as opposed to the good.”

She said patience and understanding can make all the difference to keep kids and teens out of trouble. Esparza also said it’s important for young people to set goals for themselves.

“We need to listen to our kids, we need ask them what’s hurting them, what’s frustrating them, what can make things better for them and validate these kids and give them some empowerment,” said Esparza.