Law enforcement officials in Orange Park, Florida, including Sheriff Michelle Cook and Orange Park Police Chief Randy Chase, received an update on new statutes regarding minors with firearms. The update was provided by Florida Sen. Jennifer Bradley and Secretary of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Ed Hall. The new statutes, which went into effect on July 1, impose stricter penalties for minors using or caught with firearms during a crime. Previously, such offenses would have resulted in probation, but now, a first or second offense would be charged as a third-degree felony, requiring 21 days in a secured detention facility and a class on the dangers of gun violence. A third offense would lead to a 'delinquent' designation and require a stay in juvenile detention. The sentencing guidelines are now consistent throughout the state, and judges no longer have discretion to vary from them. The update also highlighted the HOPEFLORIDA program, which aims to provide pathways for families to overcome barriers and develop long-term goals. The program has contributed to a decrease in crimes committed by minors in Florida. [169311d0]