By Kevin Lavery, KWMU
St. Louis, MO – Getting Missouri's youth involved in community life and avoiding crime was the focus of a unique summit held yesterday in St. Louis.
Governor Bob Holden and St. Louis police chief Joe Mokwa were among several panelists at a youth crime prevention summit held at Sumner Magnet High School in St. Louis.
The group fielded students' questions about the criminal justice system, homeland security and, of course, education a topic which the governor believes young people are keenly aware of.
"I find that young people are much more aggressive about making sure we have an accountability and ensuring the money is being spent wisely than, in many times, adults."
Last month, Missouri became the first state to create a youth cabinet that helps to advise public policymakers.
Holden was one of five panelists who took part in the youth crime prevention summit. Other panelists included St. Louis police chief Joe Mokwa and three St. Louis judges.