How Nashvillians are creating youth opportunity amid rising juvenile arrests
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Juvenile arrest numbers are up in Davidson County but there are new ways Nashvillians are working to help keep children and teenagers out of trouble.
The latest data from the Metro Nashville Police Department shows that so far this year, 952 juveniles have been arrested, which is an increase of 6.4% from this time last year.
Looking at the bigger picture, juvenile arrests are up about 9.9% over the past two years to date.
Teen charged with driving stolen car recklessly through Nashville
Metro Council just approved its budget for 2025 and it includes $1 million toward youth safety, creating an office of youth safety and expanding youth programs through Metro Parks.
“I was one of them kids. I grew up in a rough neighborhood. I know what it’s like under peer pressure and bullying and stuff like that,” said Terry Key, a local activist for Nashville’s youth. “Now, I’m giving the kids a way out.”
Key created Music City Riders, a program he’s grown from an Edgehill-based project, to a Music City mission. The goal is to connect Nashville’s youth with positive experiences.
Key said he’s given about 5,000 bicycles to children and teens throughout the county and organized group rides, creating new friendships and establishing healthy habits, especially over the summer downtime.
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Key said hopes the city will also invest in community-built projects like Music City Riders as he’s seen the benefits firsthand in himself, his children, and others.
Plus, he is connecting with other entrepreneurs in the city to expand free opportunities.
For example, in July, his colleagues are hosting a free hair braiding class at the Parkwood Community Center, so teenagers ages 14-18 can earn a certificate to work underneath a cosmetologist.
And at Bolouppercuttz Boxing Gym LLC, reduced-rate boxing classes are available. Call 615-933-3568 for details.
“Boxing teaches you a lot of lessons that you need to learn in life,” said Roy Bohannon, owner of Bolouppercuttz Boxing Gym LLC. “You get tired, but you can’t give up, you have to keep going, keep moving forward.”
The initiatives leaders said they hope this will introduce teens to new hobbies and employment opportunities.
For more information on the hair braiding program, call the Parkwood Community Center at 615-862-8495.
For more information on Music City Riders, call Terry Key at 615-715-3277.
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