Massachusetts is one of only 12 states that automatically tries and sentences 17-year-olds accused of crimes as adults. This is true even when their crimes are minor and non-violent – as the vast majority are.

This policy is bad for the public safety and for our kids. Study after study has shown that children who are prosecuted in the adult criminal system are more likely to reoffend and to escalate into more serious and violent crimes than children who stay in the juvenile system. Furthermore, we know that kids in adult facilities are at risk for victimization and suicide.

While holding kids accountable, the juvenile system is designed to rehabilitate. Kids in the system are required to continue their schooling and participate in other activities designed to get them on the right track, such as counseling or substance abuse treatment. That’s not always the case in the adult system. Furthermore, an adult conviction can permanently cut off job and career opportunities, leaving a person with fewer paths to be a productive member of the community.

The Justice for Kids Campaign is urging Massachusetts to raise its age of juvenile jurisdiction to 18 for all but the most serious crimes.

Other resources

» The Campaign for Youth Justice

» Building Blocks for Youth