The juvenile detective handles investigations involving persons under the age of 18. Detectives work closely with the schools and families, use specialized training to understand juvenile psychology and legal protections, and work closely with agencies like the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Juvenile Unit. Their goal is to protect youth rights, ensure community safety, and guide today’s youth toward positive futures by acting as a liaison between law enforcement and the community’s youth.