Two mothers in Santana Row assault and murder case appeal to judge one for justice, one for mercy
Briefly

Two mothers present emotional pleas in front of a Santa Clara County Juvenile Court judge, highlighting the contrasting perspectives on justice and mercy for their sons. One son is deceased, victim to a stabbing incident, while the other faces sentencing for his involvement as a gang member. The judge decided on a youth rehabilitation ranch sentence, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. This decision reflects the court's approach towards accountability and respect towards the victim's family, amidst differing concerns regarding the minors' backgrounds and their actions during the event.
One mother begged for justice. Another pleaded for mercy. My son made an error, a mistake, but my son is a good boy, said the mother of the 17-year-old who was tried and found responsible earlier this month for the assault.
Judge Andrea Flint, however, sided with the recommendation of the teenager's defense lawyer. Instead of keeping him locked up in a secure treatment facility at Juvenile Hall for 2 to 4 years, she announced she would send the boy with no prior criminal record to a youth rehabilitation ranch for 6 to 8 months.
The focus is supposed to be holding them accountable, respecting the victim's family and what is really necessary for rehabilitation.
The boy sentenced Tuesday on the same charges had no previous record. Although he had been involved in a fight in April, he had avoided trouble since.
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