Peoria Leaders Urge Parents to Get Involved as Youth Violence Rises

Community leaders call for stronger parenting, school engagement, and better juvenile justice consequences to address recent incidents

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Peoria community leaders are urging parents to stay closely involved with their kids after a recent violent incident where six teens were arrested following an alleged car theft and attacks near Peoria High and Bradley University. Councilwoman Bernice Gordon-Young and mentor Carl Cannon say stronger parenting, school engagement, and better juvenile justice consequences are key, and they stress that local resources are available to help families now.

Why it matters

Youth violence has been an ongoing issue in Peoria, with concerns about repeat offenders being released on bail and the need for a comprehensive approach involving parents, schools, and the justice system to address the root causes and keep the community safe.

The details

Following the recent incident, Peoria leaders are calling on parents to reach out for help and support, and for youth to stay engaged in school and positive activities. Councilwoman Bernice Gordon-Young and mentor Carl Cannon emphasized the importance of stronger parenting, better school involvement, and more effective juvenile justice consequences as part of the solution.

  • The violent incident occurred recently near Peoria High and Bradley University.

The players

Bernice Gordon-Young

A Peoria city councilwoman who is urging parents to get more involved in addressing youth violence.

Carl Cannon

A Peoria community mentor who is calling for stronger parenting, school engagement, and better juvenile justice consequences to address the issue of youth violence.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on Peoria streets, and if any special laws are needed to govern youth behavior and address the root causes of violence.