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Subscribe to RSSThe Supreme Court has taken up the controversial issue of life in prison for juvenile offenders. NBC's Pete Williams reports.
WASHINGTON -- The Supreme Court heard oral arguments Tuesday on whether sentences of life without parole given to two 14-year-olds convicted of murder were too harsh considering their age. The justices seemed concerned about where to draw the line.
“Is there a minimum age?” asked Justice Stephen Breyer. “Is it 10? Is it 8?"
Justice Antonin Scalia suggested it be left to the states – which is what Alabama is arguing in this case.
See the video report by NBC News Justice Correspondent Pete Williams, above, for more.
14 years old: Too young for life in prison?
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Life might be a bit harsh for the younger offenders (pre-teens), but giving them "youth sentences" that let them walk at 18 is even more unacceptable. 13 and up, if life is an option, I have no problems with using it.
I do think 14 is to young to be given life, I think 18 is to young to be given life without parol. Neither brain is full developed and is very primative from what research says. 20 years in a true rehabilitation facility yes but not life with no chance at redemtion.
If they do an adult crime the do the adult time. I blame the parents for not teaching their kids how to treat others.