A new study has been released this week that proves that a majority of young people as young as 11 are as competent as adults to stand trial. Despite proof showing that a majority of 11-15 year olds and all 16-17 year olds display adult competence, this study has been wildly misinterpreted by the media to say the small minorities of youth who lacked competence according to the study color the entire age group. NYRA spoke out on this issue by issuing a press release, but was stonewalled by the media. If the average 14 year old is competent to stand trial it takes little imagination to say he is also competent to vote or enjoy a host of other rights.
Written by:
NYRA
March 6, 2003
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