‘Camp Justice’ encourages future careers in Connecticut’s criminal justice system

ROCKY HILL, Conn. (WTNH) — State prosecutors are bringing dozens of teenagers into their offices in Rocky Hill.

Not because the students did anything wrong. In fact, they are doing something very right.

They are learning all about the criminal justice system at what the State Division of Criminal Justice calls “Camp Justice.”

“Obviously, there is a focus on prosecution and the prosecution function, but we have judges coming in to talk to the kids,” explained Chief State’s Attorney Patrick J. Griffin. “We have defense lawyers; we have some field trips to courthouses.”

Top state prosecutors opened their doors to campers for the first time last summer, showing them everything from courthouses to law enforcement demonstrations.

It really made an impression on Oliver K, who came back as a camp counselor this year.

“You’ve got to see all different parts of the justice system and how they all work together to create a legal system that’s fair, and that tried to work for the best of everybody,” Oliver said.

Camp Justice runs all this week from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Transportation and lunch are included and it’s all free.

The State Division of Criminal Justice hopes students will learn about the system and maybe someday join it.

“I think this is important work across the board, and maybe we light a spark in one or two of these young people that will bear fruit down the line,” Griffin said.

With only one year and one day in the books, it’s a little early to see the results, but it sure opened Oliver’s eyes.

“This camp really showed me the possibilities of a career in the legal field,” Oliver said.

If you know a student who is about to start eighth grade and would be interested in attending this camp next summer, email conndcj@ct.gov for more information.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.