CT's 'Camp Justice' Aims To Teach HS Frosh About Judicial Careers

CT Division of Criminal Justice

ROCKY HILL, CT — A summer camp program for soon-to-be high school freshman will offer much, much more than just the typical swimming and campfires.

It will offer the opportunity to learn about how justice is enforced and implemented in Connecticut's court system — and its free.

Chief State’s Attorney Patrick J. Griffin announced last week the Division of Criminal Justice’s inaugural 2023 DCJ Camp Justice, a weeklong summer program for eighth-grade students entering the ninth-grade in the fall.

The camp will be held at the Office of the Chief State’s Attorney, 300 Corporate Place, Rocky Hill, from Monday, July 24, through Friday, July 28.

DCJ Camp Justice is open to select students from throughout the state of Connecticut. The camp is free of charge. Lunch and transportation (if needed) will be provided.

Students at the camp will get introduced to the criminal justice system through various presentations from guest speakers and career panels as well as experience interactive opportunities with courthouse visits, mock trial preparation and presentation and a closing ceremony.

Griffin said the unique camp experience is earmarked toward inspiring young teens for future careers in justice and law enforcement.

“Young adults are at a stage of life when they start to make career decisions,” Griffin said. “This summer camp will give young people meaningful exposure to the tremendous opportunities associated with a career in the criminal justice system and educate them about the work prosecutors do every day in balancing keeping communities safe with protecting the rights of individuals.”

Once the applications are received and reviewed, accepted applicants will receive a packet of materials for completion, including a camp agenda, transportation information, waivers, medical questions, requests for special accommodations, and emergency contact information.

Applications are due June 16 and applicants will be notified by June 23 as to whether they are accepted.

DCJ Camp Justice applicants have the option to print and complete the application or apply completely online using this link: DCJ Camp Justice Online Application. For additional information and questions about 2023 DCJ Camp Justice, write to conndcj@ct.gov.

For more information, click on this link.