In re Shawn V.
Respondent appealed an order from the Family Court of Montgomery County which adjudicated him a juvenile delinquent for petit larceny and placed him in a State Division for Youth facility for 12 months. Respondent argued that this placement was not the least restrictive available alternative under Family Court Act § 352.2 (2). The Appellate Division affirmed the Family Court's decision, finding that extensive reports, including psychiatric, psychological, and probation reports, evidenced serious emotional and behavioral problems, a history of aggressive and antisocial conduct, and a clear threat to both himself and the community. Professionals consistently recommended secure placement, deeming direct community placement unwise due to the risk of continued antisocial behavior, and the examining psychologist indicated a risk of sex offense. The court concluded that ample evidence supported the Family Court's determination that placement in a Division for Youth facility was the appropriate least restrictive alternative.