Young and Reckless

Did you know what was bad and good at the age of 16? According to Governor Cuomo, the need to raise the age to charge as an adult could have an enormous impact on their futures. Currently, nearly 800 inmates sentenced to jails and prisons are under than age of eighteen. These individuals are twice as likely to be mentally of physically harmed by other inmates in the same facilities. The Commission of Youth, Public Safety and Justice recommends raising the age to be processed in a criminal court which would reduce issues within a jail or prison.

Reforming how the Justice System treats juveniles with the exception of all serious crimes, felonies, would open up space and help these troubled youths. Studies show access to programs that offer support and rehabilitation are five times more likely to be successful in reforming these youths. Putting youths in a facility with serious criminals has a negative effect on their mind and ability to think rationally. These youths are susceptible to an outsider, which makes them very easily manipulable.

Other recommendations include placement settings for those youths to be deemed low risk to society. This would ensure that the criminal justice system is fairer and gives juveniles a second chance. According to the Commission, if implemented, these reforms would prevent between 1,500 and 2,400 crimes against people every five years across the State. At a price tag of $35,000 per inmate per year, this could save New York State eighty-four million dollars and make a positive influence in these adolescences life.

 To learn more about the Juvenile System, click here