Prosecuting 14 year olds as adults cannot be allowed to happen

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.