Overturning a life sentence?

[Scott34]

Two Life Sentences for Offenders Convicted As Juveniles Overturned | KCRG-TV9 | Cedar Rapids, Iowa News, Sports, and Weather | Local News

So I read this article and this really puzzles me, or should say bothers me. To me I just don't understand how you can let these guys go. I understand they are technically a juvenile, but if they would of been one year older or even a half year older they have no chance of this being overturned. IMO, if your 17 and kill someone, you know what your doing. There isn't that big of differance between 17 and 18. Now if we were talking about a 12-14 year old, I would be all for giving them another chance. I guess maybe i'm wrong but this really bothers me that they are letting a killer go when that individual is so close to the age of 18, which is no longer considered being a juvenile. Wondering what other peoples view are on this.

 

[Cyclonepride]

I think it's the mandatory nature of the sentence that is at issue, so if I understand correctly, they can still issue a life sentence, it just can't be required. And some of these guys shouldn't be sharing the same planet with the rest of us.

 

[bowlfan912]

In Illinois people who are 17 and commit a crime are charged as an adult.

 

[Scott34]

In Illinois people who are 17 and commit a crime are charged as an adult.

I think thats what it should be here in Iowa. I just don't see how a 17 year killer doesn't know what they are doing.

 

[Angie]

Just a preemptive reminder that any political posts will send this to the Cave immediately. :smile:

 

[Me State]

I think it's the mandatory nature of the sentence that is at issue, so if I understand correctly, they can still issue a life sentence, it just can't be required.

This is how I understand it as well.

 

[bawbie]

In Illinois people who are 17 and commit a crime are charged as an adult.

I think thats what it should be here in Iowa. I just don't see how a 17 year killer doesn't know what they are doing.

This doesn't change that at all. All the SCOTUS said is that if you are under 18 when you commit the crime, there can't be a mandatory life sentence.

You can still try them as an adult, and the people affected by this are not going free, they are having a new sentencing hearing.

 

[MartyMcCy]

I thought this thread was going to be about contemplating a divorce.

 

[Scott34]

In Illinois people who are 17 and commit a crime are charged as an adult.

I think thats what it should be here in Iowa. I just don't see how a 17 year killer doesn't know what they are doing.

This doesn't change that at all. All the SCOTUS said is that if you are under 18 when you commit the crime, there can't be a mandatory life sentence. You can still try them as an adult, and the people affected by this are not going free, they are having a new sentencing hearing.

Ok...i did miss read that part of it. Thank you bringing that to my attention.

 

[FarminCy]

Just a preemptive reminder that any political posts will send this to the Cave immediately. :smile:

Vote Perot in 96!!!!

 

[Angie]

Vote Perot in 96!!!!

That's it! To the cave! :wink:

 

[NATEizKING]

Personally I would expect a life sentence for murder at age negative 9 months.