Massachusetts Report Finds 53% Of Youth Enter Juvenile Court Via Arrest Despite Summons Being Preferred Practice

About 53% of Massachusetts youth entered juvenile court via arrest in fiscal year (FY) 2025, compared to 47% entering through a summons, according to the Massachusetts Juvenile Justice Policy and Data Board. This marks the third consecutive year that arrests have exceeded summons, despite summons being the preferred practice unless there is concern a youth will fail to appear in court.

The share of court entries initiated by arrest has increased steadily, from 51% in FY 2023 to 52% in FY 2024, and 53% in FY 2025. A summons allows youth to remain at home with their families while awaiting . . .