Juvenile sentencing in the U.S. continues to spark intense debate. Reports from groups like Human Rights Watch and the Equal Justice Initiative reveal that dozens of people were sentenced to life in prison for crimes committed before age 14.
Some cases involve serious violence, while others include minors who were only accomplices. Many also grew up facing poverty, trauma, and unstable homes — factors advocates say should matter, especially since science shows children’s brains are still developing.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that mandatory life-without-parole sentences for juveniles are unconstitutional, a decision expanded in 2016.
Today, the conversation continues: How should the justice system balance accountability, safety, and second chances for children? 