Transforming Juvenile Justice Through Gun Safety
Judge Lori Bustamante of the Superior Court of Arizona in Maricopa County has been honored with the prestigious Innovator of the Year Award by the NCJFCJ. The award was presented at the 11th annual Justice Innovation Awards ceremony in Chicago during the NCJFCJ’s 88th Annual Conference. Judge Bustamante is being recognized for her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to youth justice through the creation of Project S.A.F.E. (Safety Awareness & Firearms Education), a groundbreaking program designed to reduce gun violence and empower young people with the knowledge, skills, and support to change their futures.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award and profoundly grateful for the opportunity to help positively shape the lives of our youth and strengthen our community,” said Judge Bustamante. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaborative efforts of so many in Maricopa County who are truly making a meaningful difference. I share this honor with all those who inspire others and lead the way in building a brighter, more hopeful future for our communities.”
Project S.A.F.E., officially launched in July 2024, is a comprehensive digital and in-person program that guides youth through a personal growth journey using interactive content, storytelling, and real-world mentorship. In just its first year, the program has reached more than 165 youth, logged more than 900 hours of programming, and helped participants complete 2,500 learning activities and share nearly 1,000 personal stories.
“Judge Bustamante didn’t just support the idea, she built it,” said Judge Kathleen Quigley, president of the NCJFCJ. “Her leadership was instrumental in ensuring this program works not just for the courts, but for the young people and families who need it most. She embodies what it means to be an innovator in juvenile justice.”
Developed in partnership with Maricopa County Juvenile Probation Department and powered by LifeLab Studios’ platform, Project S.A.F.E. features interactive learning on topics such as gun safety, decision-making, and life skills. The program includes in-person evening sessions with victim impact and lived experience panels, where youth hear firsthand accounts of the consequences of gun violence. Families are also engaged throughout the program, with dedicated lessons and support to strengthen parent-child relationships.
The program culminates in a graduation where each youth presents their “what I learned” journey, often reflecting powerful transformations from fear and confusion to hope and purpose. Judge Bustamante personally attends these events, listening to every story and offering encouragement that reinforces the court’s commitment to both justice and opportunity.
“Where many might see punitive sanctions as the only path, Judge Bustamante saw a chance to do something more, ” said Sasha Barab, Ph.D., professor at Arizona State University and CEO of Lifelab Studios, Inc. “She believes in creating a space for growth and accountability, where young people are supported in making lasting, positive change.”
Judge Bustamante has served with distinction since her appointment in 2014. A leader in juvenile justice, she brings more than a decade of judicial experience and a career marked by service—as a deputy county attorney, senior trial attorney, and solo practitioner—before joining the bench.
The NCJFCJ also honored Judge Andrea M. Buford of the Child Protection Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois as the Impact of the Year Award recipient for her commitment to improving outcomes for children and families through judicial innovation, collaboration, and systemic reform.