Statistical data and anecdotal evidence suggest that the status of at-risk children and adolescents can easily lead to juvenile crime. Even though the majority of so-called endangered juveniles do not commit criminal acts, 60 to 70 percent of juvenile delinquents are from that subpopulation of children at risk. The author describes some juvenile delinquency prevention techniques used in Western European countries, and questions whether they can be adapted to the Hungarian situation. One key issue is whether law enforcement or social services should take the lead in delinquency intervention efforts. 5 tables and 6 notes