ATHENS – Greek minors can choose community service over jail for convictions of misdemeanors and lesser crimes under legislation being prepared to give them an option.

Justice Minister Kostas Tsiaras, speaking at an event there, said that it would better be able to rehabilitate young offenders and give them a chance to make a positive social impact, said Kathimerini.

He also announced improvements to social, family and reintegration services available to minors, as well as what he said would be a more efficient probation system for the country.

“We have made significant inroads in reducing crime with the amendments to the Penal Code. This framework is now being completed with initiatives aimed at prevention, by upgrading the juvenile probation and social assistance services, which will supervise the community service scheme as a main or alternative sentence,” he said.