How are juvenile arsonists treated?
Depending upon the severity of the situation, and whether persons were harmed, penalties for juvenile arsonists vary. Juvenile offenders (especially first-time offenders) are referred to programs that deal with their fire-setting behavior. The youth meet with both mental health experts and fire-prevention specialists. First-time offenders also typically face community service assignments, while repeat offenders face confinement through the Department of Youth Services. In addition, many fire departments also have effective juvenile arson prevention programs for the purpose of preventing future arson.