Sacramento County Public Defender Awarded for Innovation

The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) awarded the Sacramento County Public Defender’s Office with a 2025 Challenge Award for its innovative Juvenile Pre-Trail Program on Feb. 11, 2026.

CSAC’s Challenge Awards highlight County programs from across the state that help solve complex issues.

“This award reflects our belief that when we invest in young people early — by understanding their trauma, supporting their families, and connecting them to services — we can change life trajectories and strengthen our community,” said Chief Public Defender Amanda Benson.

“I am incredibly proud of our team and our justice partners for embracing a model that prioritizes care, accountability, and opportunity for youth.”

The Juvenile Pre-Trial Program launched in 2023. The goal of the initiative is to assess youth in the juvenile justice system for trauma, mental health needs, educational challenges, family circumstances and other underlying factors. Public defenders work alongside social workers to develop individualized release plans and connect youth and their families to community-based support.

By addressing root causes early, the program aligns with Sacramento County’s broader goals of improving community well-being, advancing equitable outcomes and responsibly reducing youth detention. Youth connected to these services are less likely to return to custody and more likely to be released sooner.

“The Juvenile Pre-Trial Program shows what’s possible when we look beyond the case file and focus on the whole child,” said Assistant Public Defender Reuben Moreno. “By building trust early and connecting youth to meaningful support, we’re helping them succeed while improving outcomes across the system.”

The CSAC recognition reflects Sacramento County’s commitment to early, meaningful intervention. Through the Juvenile Pre-Trial Program, the Public Defender’s Office will continue helping families through a difficult process. 

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Sacramento County
Juvenile Pre-Trial Program
Sacramento County’s Juvenile Pre-Trial Program addresses high youth incarceration and recidivism by shifting the focus from punishment to early, needs-based support. Upon system entry, social workers assess each child’s trauma, mental health, education, and family needs to quickly connect them to services. By initiating voluntary, trauma-informed care before adjudication, the program supports earlier release, reduces repeat involvement, and improves outcomes for youth and families.