Gardena council hears GJIP update; father credits program with turning daughter's life around

The Gardena City Council received an update on the Gardena Juvenile Justice Intervention Program (GJIP), which staff said has served about 939 youth since 2015 and currently has about 50 active clients.

Detective Sterling Kim and lead case manager Rosa Hernandez told the council that GJIP is a pre‑booking diversion program designed to identify underlying causes of delinquent behavior and link youth and families to services including social‑work assessments, addiction treatment, housing supports and job referral. Staff reported a recidivism rate of “less than 5 percent” among enrolled youth.

During the presentation, resident and parent Dorian Esthers described enrolling his daughter, Ariana, after she tested positive for cannabis in school. Esthers said staff at GJIP “intervened” and that his daughter's grades and behavior improved: “She really, really enjoyed the program. She would come home and tell me, —I can—t tell you what we talked about,— but I just can tell you I like it.—” Esthers added that the program helped the family avoid a criminal outcome.

Lieutenant Chris Cuff and staff highlighted that the program uses wraparound, evidence‑based practices and partners with graduate‑level social workers for assessments. Officials said GJIP diverts youth away from the criminal justice system by providing alternatives immediately after arrest or citation.

Council members praised the program during remarks that followed. Council member Henderson called the program “money well spent” and urged continued investment. The presentation concluded with staff saying additional cohorts and outreach are planned.

The council did not take formal action on GJIP at the meeting; the presentation was informational and no vote was required.