New York City officials, including Bronx DA Darcel Clark and Mayor Eric Adams, are advocating for changes to the Raise the Age law, which increased criminal responsibility from 16 to 18. They argue it has resulted in a surge in teen involvement in gun violence, with rising numbers of young offenders in gang-related shootings. Officials note that the law creates a perception that minors face limited consequences for gun possession, hence emboldening them. Despite the intention to reform juvenile justice, the law's impact on violence has raised serious concerns among law enforcement.
"The mentality on the street is that nothing happens to those under 18 who possess or use a gun. This is the biggest challenge for us right now, and it's an unintended consequence of the Raise the Age law."
"The law was intended to divert more 16- and 17-year-olds accused of misdemeanors to family court. If teens are accused of serious crimes, judges must prove why they should remain in regular court."
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