REPORT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE PROSECUTING ATTORNEY – Governor Neil Abercrombie has appointed Prosecutor Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho to serve on the Hawai‘i Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council.
The Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council is a Governor- appointed advisory group concerned with at-risk youths involved in the juvenile justice system.
The Council advises the Governor, Legislature, and Office of Youth Services as to the formulation of policies meant to address juvenile justice issues and improve the effectiveness of the system.
The Council also oversees the implementation of juvenile federal grant programs administered by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice, and Delinquency Prevention.
As a prosecuting attorney for 11 years on Kauai and a public defender for 4 years on Oahu and Maui, Iseri-Carvalho brings a vast range of experience to the Council on criminal justice issues affecting juveniles.
In addition to handling thousands of adult felony cases in those roles, she also handled hundreds of juvenile cases; prosecuting as well as defending juveniles for all types of crimes including negligent homicides, property offenses, and sexual assaults. Iseri-Carvalho also plans to utilize her legislative background as a County Councilmember to enhance and improve juvenile services throughout the State.
“I am honored to be selected for this incredible opportunity to help our keiki” said Iseri-Carvalho. “I want to ensure that job skill services, mentoring programs, academic plans and family-focused interventions for these teens remain a top priority among Hawai‘i’s leaders. By providing an avenue for change, we can encourage youths to break away from destructive behavior and build the foundation for a successful future.”