Kaufman County, TX — As Kaufman County’s population grows, so too does the complexity and severity of juvenile crime. Kaufman County Court at Law Judge Joseph Russell knows the community is seeing a troubling increase in serious juvenile offenses involving firearms, drugs, and gang-related violence.
Kaufman County, TX — As Kaufman County’s population grows, so too does the complexity and severity of juvenile crime. Kaufman County Court at Law Judge Joseph Russell knows the community is seeing a troubling increase in serious juvenile offenses involving firearms, drugs, and gang-related violence.
“Violent offenses have become much more prevalent,” Judge Russell said. “It’s not uncommon now for a juvenile involved in an aggravated assault to be carrying a gun.”
One of the most notable changes in recent years is the frequency of firearm-related offenses among youth, often accompanied by signs of gang affiliation. While these juveniles may not claim traditional gang identities like “Bloods” or “Crips,” their behavior and crimes are just as serious.
Impact on the Court System
The juvenile justice system is designed to move quickly, aiming to resolve cases within 90 days—much faster than the adult criminal system. However, the rise in violent juvenile crime is putting increased pressure on courts and detention facilities.
“Unlike the adult system, juveniles can’t bond out of jail,” Russell explained. “This means we’re holding more detention hearings, because these dangerous youth must remain in custody while their cases are pending.”
Lack of Detention Space
Kaufman County’s current infrastructure is struggling to keep up. The juvenile probation office has reached capacity, and there is no room to expand staffing or services. The County must rely on juvenile detention facilities in other areas—sometimes across the state.
“Our county is transporting juveniles to places like Grayson, Midland, Victoria, and Marshall,” Judge Russell said. “That puts a strain on our law enforcement partners and risks juveniles being released before it’s appropriate. In the past, Kaufman County contracted with Dallas County for detention beds, but that arrangement ended due to Dallas County’s own capacity challenges. Hunt County’s facility also closed. These limitations have sparked community questions about why juveniles can’t be held in the county jail. The state has strict requirements to ensure juveniles and adults aren’t detained in the same facility. It’s about protecting the safety of these kids,” the judge explained.
Balancing Accountability and Rehabilitation
Despite the challenges, the court remains committed to balancing accountability with rehabilitation. Decisions take into account a juvenile’s criminal history, seriousness of the offense, school behavior, and home environment—along with the resources available.
“We believe in holding juveniles accountable, but also in offering services that help them change,” said Judge Russell.
The County partners with groups like the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority to address mental health needs. Schools are also stepping up, offering programs to help youth develop communication and life skills.
Gang Activity and Community Shifts
Judge Russell confirmed an increase in gang activity among juveniles, especially among those who have relocated to Kaufman County from Dallas County.
“Some of these juveniles come from families with gang ties, and they bring that activity with them,” the judge noted. “The Juvenile Probation Office works with the street crime task force to identify and monitor these groups.”
Effective Diversion Programs
For low-risk and first-time offenders, Kaufman County offers several diversion and alternative sentencing options. Programs like deferred prosecution allow youth to participate in services without being formally referred to court, and a first-offender program helps steer low-risk juveniles away from deeper involvement in the justice system.
“Youth referred to us often have significant trauma, mental health challenges, and difficult family situations,” Judge Russell said. “Some of them are just now, for the first time, telling someone what they’ve been through.”
The Community Resource Coalition Group offers additional support, especially for younger children entering the system. The goal, the judge emphasized, is to equip youth with skills to become productive adults.
Looking Ahead: Policy Change Needed
With the rise in firearm possession among juveniles, the judge believes one crucial step forward is legislative change.
“We would like lawmakers to make it a felony offense for juveniles to possess firearms. That would be a major step in addressing the violence we’re seeing.”
As Kaufman County continues to grow, the judge’s message is clear: the community must act—through policy, infrastructure, and partnerships—to meet the rising demands of juvenile justice.