The chief sponsor of the Youth Court Program is hopeful funding can be found to keep it operating in New Bedford and Fall River.

Carl Alves of Positive Action Against Chemical Addiction says the program joins with schools to bring youthful offenders before a jury of their peers who listen to arguments and decide their fate.

"That is the goal of the program, to divert people from the traditional court system, hold them accountable for what they've done but give them an opportunity to restore peace in their lives, make amends when necessary and make better choices going forward," said Alves.

He says a three year federal grant used to operate the program has expired, and sponsors are working to find alternative funding. Alves says he's hopeful something can be worked out before September when the youth court is scheduled to start up again.

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