> "Often when you send a young person to jail, they end up learning to be better criminals," said Megan Longley, executive director at Nova Scotia Legal Aid.
> Longley and others say removing youths from their homes, peer groups and schools is detrimental.
> "Remaining in the community and remaining in school is one of the most important things we can do for these young people," said Bossé.
> "If they don't get their education, man, they are up against a tough, tough world."