Proposal would expand juvenile justice system above age 18
BOSTON (WWLP) – State lawmakers are looking at changes to the Massachusetts criminal justice system, which could keep teenagers away from adult prisons.
The proposal could make Massachusetts the first state in the country to raise the age of juvenile court past 18. Four state lawmakers have filed a bill to include young adults in the juvenile justice system, rather than sending them to adult prisons.
Supporters say the proposal would reduce crime, save taxpayer dollars, and give 18 to 21 year-olds a second chance.
