Little Criminals

Eleven-year-old Des is trapped in poverty and neglect, using his wits to navigate a world that underestimates him. He is impulsive, resourceful, and increasingly hostile toward the adults around him. He rationalizes criminal acts as a means to survive and control his environment. The trauma of his home life drives him toward a downward path toward more dangerous crimes.

Cory is Des's friend who joins him in a string of crimes after admiring Des's willingness to stand up to a bully. He is loyal but easily drawn into risky schemes that escalate quickly. His bond with Des pulls him deeper into the criminal path, until a violent act shatters their alliance. He seeks safety and distance as violence intensifies.

Rita is a psychologist who counsels Des at an assessment center, trying to uncover underlying motivations and potential for change. She offers a compassionate, professional approach and works toward finding a foster placement. Her work reveals both the possibility of healing and the stubborn obstacles imposed by an under-resourced system.

Chet is the local drug dealer who becomes the target of Des and Cory's plan, a figure of authority and danger in their world. He reacts violently when confronted, leading to his fatal injury at their hands. His presence and the confrontation highlight the peril and desperation of the street economy.

The social worker visits Des's home to assess his situation and arrange protection, illustrating the social services’ attempts to intervene. She navigates a complex system where progress is slow and emotional needs often clash with bureaucratic constraints. Her role underscores the fragility of care in a city-wide struggle to protect troubled children.

Des's mother is depicted as overwhelmed by poverty, showing little patience or consistent care for her son. The home environment is volatile, and her neglect contributes to Des’s sense of abandonment. She later relinquishes custody as the system intervenes, illustrating the breakdown of family stability.