According to a Rutherford County judge, there has been an increase of young offenders needing treatment for mental health issues.
Juvenile Court Judge, Donna Scott Davenport, said she dealt with more younger juveniles with mental health problems within the past few weeks.
"There is excessive aggression and that poses a risk to the child, family and community," Judge Davenport said.
The average age has been 12 years old. She said it’s been the worst she’s seen since she began as a juvenile court judge 17 years ago.
"That's why I have 11 and 12 year old kids," Davenport said. "It's not exhibiting itself in a healthy way but maybe that is a good thing that we do catch it early."
Although the reason behind the increase was unknown, Davenport said dealing with a child is different from late teens and adults.
"We are dealing with children and they have different layers," Davenport added. "Their type of trauma is different from adults."
Judge Davenport believes untreated mental health issues can lead to aggressive behavior and even drug abuse. Some of which she has already seen.
She admitted the center needs more resources before the problem gets even worse.
"We need more availability like a residential treatment facility," Davenport said. "Somewhere where our children can, every day, go see psychological experts."
The Rutherford County Juvenile Detention Center offers help to parents. Call 615-898-7954 for more information.
