What is the problem that the National Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth is trying to solve?
There are more than 2,500 juvenile offenders in prison in the United States serving life without parole sentences for crimes they committed under the age of eighteen, and none in the rest of the world. Detailed research on the use of this sentence around the country has documented evidence of systemic racial disparities, gross failures in legal representation, and many examples of youth being sentenced more harshly than adults convicted of the same crimes. Despite popular thinking, a large portion of the people serving juvenile life without the possibility of parole (JLWOP) are not repeat offenders, nor have they been convicted of the most serious violent crimes. Nearly 60% of people serving JLWOP are first time offenders. More than one quarter of people serving JLWOP were convicted of “felony murder,” which means they were participants in an underlying crime which resulted in death. In other words, while these youth may have intended to commit some crime (for instance, robbing a store), they did not intend for anyone to be killed. Others sentenced to life without parole were convicted of crimes on a theory of accountability, which means that they were not the actual perpetrators of the crime. The Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth is dedicated to seeking a just alternative to JLWOP that will hold juveniles accountable for their crimes while offering the opportunity to achieve parole before they die.
Why is JLWOP inappropriate for youth?
The imposition of life without parole sentences on young people is especially cruel because children are different from adults, and juvenile justice is founded on the majority view that children, even those convicted of grave crimes, deserve the opportunity for second chances. Behavioral research confirms what is recognized by U.S. and state laws: children do not have adult levels of judgment, impulse control, or ability to assess risks. There is widespread agreement among child development researchers that young people who commit crimes are more likely to reform their behavior and have a better chance at rehabilitation than adults. The Supreme Court agrees—In Roper v. Simmons the Court explained, “From a moral standpoint it would be misguided to equate the failings of a minor with those of an adult, for a greater possibility exists that a minor’s character deficiencies will be reformed.” Youth deserve meaningful and periodic reviews of their life sentences, to ensure that those who can prove they have reformed are given an opportunity to re-enter society as contributing citizens.
What you can do to help:
If you believe young people should receive a more appropriate sentence and the possibility of a second chance, please join the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. As a member or supporter, you will receive continuing updates on the progress of legislation, and suggestions for action. If you want to become involved in this important effort, please contact Jody Kent, National Coordinator:
