Discussion: Preparing a Case
Case Study
Jack and Diane are each 13 years old and are best friends. On September 12, 2012, Jack asked Diane to meet at Moe’s Convenience Store. While in the store, Jack steals three packs of gum and a candy bar. Jack hands Diane two boxes of candy to place in her purse. Diane places the candy in her purse. The store owner, Moe, notices Diane place items in her purse. As Jack and Diane exit the store, Moe calls their names and runs after them. Jack pushes Moe to the ground and exits with Diane. Moe calls the police and reports the theft. The police apprehend Jack and Diane a few blocks away from the store. The police only retrieve the boxes of candy from Diane but not the packs of gum nor the candy bar taken by Jack. The police escort Jack and Diane to the police station where they question them for two hours regarding the theft. Diane confesses her and Jack’s role in the theft. Jack denies any wrongdoing. The police charge Jack and Diane with theft and also charge Jack with simple assault. Their hearings are within the state mandated time after they are petitioned to appear in the local juvenile court.
Question
A. Describe how juveniles who commit offenses have historically been treated differently than adults. Why has this view evolved? Explain the due process rights afforded to Jack and Diane during the hearing process. Provide rationale for the evolution of the due process rights.
B. Determine possible court-ordered options for Jack and Diane, defending your response.
Requirements
double spacing, 12‐point Times New Roman font, one‐inch margins, and at least three sources cited in APA format.
Solution Preview
Crimes have been there for a long time and different states have been handling them differently. In the United States, children below the age of 14 were initially believed to be incompetent of committing crimes. However, this perception changed with the time when the number of children in this age bracket committing crimes increased. Those between the age 14 and 18 were still considered as children but their offenses were taken seriously as it was assumed that they were competent of performing crimes (Matza, 2018). They were treated the same as the adults’ crime offenders, i.e. Tried in regular courts and received the same punishment as the adults. With time the juvenile courts come up and also the juvenile due process.
(403 words)