1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

The plan to prosecute minors as adults in DC will not work and is detrimental. Even though the crime rate in DC is at a 30-year low, we need to prevent juvenile delinquency before it happens. After-school programs that teach job skills, provide mental health resources, and offer positive activities can make a meaningful impact. Putting adolescents through the adult court system frequently leads to increased criminal behavior later on. As a society, we have an obligation to safeguard and guide youth, not treat them as hardened criminals. I urge you to oppose this ill-advised proposal. We should implement proven strategies that keep young people and communities secure and thriving.