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Some jurisdictions are reconsidering the definition of “juvenile” as it relates to the prosecution of criminal acts. For example, California lawmakers are considering raising the age limit of individuals who would be tried and sentenced as juveniles from age 17 to age 19. The author of the bill, Democratic State Senator Nancy Skinner, says that “under the bill, 18- and 19-year-olds would be treated as juveniles in criminal proceedings.” She added in a statement on her website, “When teenagers make serious mistakes and commit crimes, state prison is not the answer. Processing teenagers through the juvenile justice system will help ensure they receive the appropriate education, counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation services necessary to achieve real public safety outcomes.”
In this podcast, Jim and Doug discuss this proposal as well as others like it, and the ramifications for both the criminal justice system and public safety.
