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Preventing Youth Gun Violence: Education, Intervention, and Community Action
SESSION INFO
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Session Type: Workshop
Gun possession among juveniles is rising at an alarming rate, leading to devastating consequences for individuals and communities. This session explores a proactive, multi-pronged approach to addressing youth firearm possession through education, intervention, and specialized court procedures. Learn how the Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County is tackling this crisis with a dedicated Gun Intervention Program that combines problem-solving courts, mentorship, mobile learning, and community awareness campaigns. Attendees will gain insights into innovative strategies, including victim impact panels, credible messenger programs, and conflict resolution training, aimed at reducing gun-related offenses and fostering positive behavioral change. Join us to discover how a collaborative approach can prevent violence, empower youth, and promote public safety.
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SESSION PRESENTERS
Mrs. Celena Monique Angstead
Deputy Chief Probation Officer, Maricopa County Juvenile Probation
Celena Angstead serves as Deputy Chief of the Community Supervision Bureau for the Maricopa County Juvenile Probation Department. With over 27 years of experience in juvenile justice, she is a leader known for championing evidence-based, data-driven reforms and fostering collaborative, inclusive work environments. Celena has spearheaded numerous statewide juvenile justice initiatives in Arizona, championing innovation in probation practices and contributing to impactful policy reform. As a long-standing member of the APPA and Arizona’s current state representative, she brings a sustained and active commitment to advancing the profession. Celena co-chaired the APPA 46th Annual Training Institute Program Committee and is a proud graduate of the APPA Leadership Institute. Her passion for justice, operational excellence, and continuous improvement makes her a respected and influential voice in the future of community supervision.
Adam Fine
Professor of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University
D. Fine, Ph.D., is a Professor in the School of Criminology & Criminal Justice at Arizona State University. He received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Irvine, specializing in Developmental Psychology and Quantitative Methods. His work has been supported by a variety of funders, including the National Institute of Justice, the Annie E. Casey Foundation, and a CAREER award from the National Science Foundation. He is the director of the Youth Justice Lab at ASU.
Ronnie Rios
Juvenile Probation Officer, Maricopa County Juvenile Probation
Ronnie Rios is a dedicated Juvenile Probation Officer with nearly three years of experience, currently managing a Standard caseload across various zip codes in Maricopa County. He is also involved in a new gun safety program focused on educating youth about the risks and consequences of firearm possession. Ronnie’s passion for public service was shaped by his work as a courtroom assistant in the Criminal Department and strengthened through his academic journey. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in forensic psychology from Grand Canyon University, as well as a master’s degree in criminal justice from Arizona State University. Throughout his studies, Ronnie developed a strong interest in understanding the backgrounds of juveniles and their connection to criminal behavior and ideologies.
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