Pilot program gives teenager a fresh start

Beijing's Xicheng district procuratorate is changing the way it deals with young offenders and has partnered with a private company to help those without hukou, or permanent residency, in the capital.

Ming Yuan Group, a private enterprise with a chain of restaurants and hotels, has been providing selected young offenders with work and accommodation since July 3.

"The suspects will be treated the same as other employees here and sign a six-month contract with us," said Li Fei, administrative director of the company. "Then they'll get a temporary job in one of our restaurants or hotels.

"They get 1,260 yuan ($197) a month and insurance in line with the contract. They can become formal employees if they finish their punishment and are willing to stay."

However, he said, the company just supplies a place to work, while the legal punishment is still dealt with by the management of the Renzhu Social Work Office.

"We'll maintain the privacy of the juveniles, hoping our help can bring them bright futures," Li said. He said the program can solve the problem of prosecutors having nowhere to observe or investigate juvenile offenders who do not have Beijing hukou.