Liepāja children master modern probation arts faster than Riga teens learn to ride scooters

News from the capital indicates that probation supervision has become a real fashion trend among children — this year already 52 little Liepāja residents have had the opportunity to gain this exclusive experience, compared to 35 children last year. The State Police proudly announce that this growing trend should be evaluated positively, as it means children are finally learning to follow rules without needing to go to prison.

According to statistics, 14-16 year old boys most often end up under probation supervision, who have learned that in life you can earn money not only at the market, where everything is fresher than in Riga and half the price, but also through various creative property-related activities. 17 percent of these young entrepreneurs have specialized in theft, fraud and embezzlement, which are as popular as hooliganism.

"My son is now like a VIP client — he has a personal curator who follows everything he does," says one Liepāja mom. "That's much better than Instagram followers — at least this one is paid from the state budget."

Probation supervision requires that the child follow various prohibitions — cannot leave home after a certain time, cannot meet with certain people and cannot consume alcohol. So basically the same rules as for adults, just officially formalized and with legal justification. If the child is conscientious and cooperative, the court can reduce the probation period, but if not — then it can be extended or they can be sent to real prison, where the Wi-Fi isn't as good.