http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=93887&page=1
This ABC news article discusses a debate that we have talked about in class - should juveniles be tried as adults for violent crimes?
One of the young men Lionel Tate, age 14, was sentenced to life without parole due to the death of his 6-year-old playmate. Florida law stated that Lionel must receive a mandatory life sentence because of his charge of first degree murder. Tate was 12-years-old when he killed his play mate.
Charles Williams, age 15, now faces adult court for a "shooting spree" at Santana High School. The California law - Proposition 21 - enforces these laws with juveniles in the hopes to deter other juveniles from committing similar crimes.
I felt that this article was relevant after the discussions we have had on brain development and "adult crime for adult time". I also have my bachelors in criminal justice and feel very strongly about this topic. While currently working in a trauma informed agency I have gained a lot of insight on crime and how children can reach out in inappropriate ways for acceptance.
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