The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office is making a heartfelt plea to the community: in the face of rising teen violence, it’s time to take action. The “Report, Don’t Repost” campaign urges everyone—teens, parents, and educators—to report violent incidents instead of sharing them on social media.
Teen violence is surging, with a 32% increase in juveniles charged as adults in 2023. Alarmingly, 91% of these cases involved violence or firearms. The consequences are severe, affecting not only the individuals involved but entire communities.
“When our kids witness a fight, they need to know what to do,” says a parent in a powerful video released by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. “Encourage them to report it, not record it.”
The campaign highlights key steps to take if you witness violence:
- Don’t post videos on social media. Sharing violent content only escalates the situation and spreads the harm.
- Call the police. Report the incident immediately and don’t assume someone else has done so.
- Let those involved know help is on the way. This can help de-escalate the situation.
The video captures the urgency of the situation: “Parents, we need to talk about teen violence—it’s hurting our kids and our communities… Together, we can create a safer community.” Rachel Mitchell, Maricopa County Attorney, reminded adolescents that crimes can be reported anonymously to law enforcement to protect the safety of bystanders.
This is more than just a campaign—it’s a call to protect our kids and make Maricopa County safer. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office is asking for your help. Reporting violence can prevent further harm and potentially save lives.
For more information and resources, visit the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office website. Your actions can make a real difference—remember, report, don’t repost.
