In a recent interview, Sang Tao, the head of the Juvenile Prosecution Department at the Hangzhou Municipal People’s Procuratorate, shared valuable insights into his experiences and the challenges he faces in the sphere of juvenile justice. In a heartfelt post on social media, he expressed his pride in working within a legal system dedicated to minors, a sentiment that resonated with him after binge-watching the series “Prosecutors’ Case Files.”
With over 27 years in public prosecution before transitioning to juvenile affairs in 2017, Sang reflected on his initial underestimation of the complexities associated with juvenile cases. “I thought the job was straightforward, but I soon realized it entails much more than I anticipated,” he noted. “We encounter sensitive issues like child testimony, psychological interventions, and parenting education. Handling a juvenile case often demands five times the effort required for an adult case.”
Sang’s commitment to juvenile justice goes beyond merely resolving cases; he advocates for a holistic approach that prioritizes protection, education, and crime prevention for minors. “True juvenile protection isn’t just one aspect; it’s a crucial part of a larger narrative,” he asserted.
He shared a particularly poignant case involving a father who attempted to kill his son. Almost a decade later, the procuratorate continues to support the child discreetly as he matures, exemplifying the ongoing dedication of juvenile prosecutors.
In his role, Sang confronts the harsh realities many children face but struggle to articulate. “It’s essential to remind them consistently that none of this is their fault. Many children hesitate to report abuse out of fear or shame, and unfortunately, some parents discourage them from seeking help to keep family issues under wraps.”
To address these challenges, the Hangzhou Procuratorate implemented a mandatory reporting system for child abuse cases following the revision of the Juvenile Protection Law in June 2021, establishing a legal framework for better protecting children.
A line from “Prosecutors’ Case Files” struck a chord with Sang: “Aren’t you curious about your future?” This resonates deeply with him, reflecting the lives of young people he encounters, whose trajectories can shift from minor infractions, like truancy, to serious offenses due to a lack of guidance and support.
Sang passionately advocates for early intervention as a means to redirect troubled youths away from a life of crime. He underscores the necessity of creating tailored educational and rehabilitative programs rather than relying solely on punitive measures.
“The challenges children face are ultimately issues that reflect on society as a whole,” Sang emphasized. He called for a collaborative effort among families, schools, and governments to nurture and educate young people. “Parents are a child’s first teachers, and without a solid foundation of care, trust, respect, and education, children can easily stray off path.”
Sang also pointed out the proactive measures they take, such as issuing Guardian Supervision Orders when parents fail to meet their obligations. Despite the difficulties of managing rebellious behavior and complex family dynamics, Sang remains committed to investing patience, confidence, and determination in his role, firmly believing that every child deserves a shot at a brighter future.
