Critics of the legislation argue that it represents a regression in juvenile justice reform, pointing to research showing that adolescent brains are still developing and that rehabilitation should remain the primary focus of juvenile justice.
“While this tragic case evokes strong emotions, we must be careful not to abandon evidence-based approaches to juvenile justice,” cautioned Andrea McChristian, Law & Policy Director at the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice. “A one-size-fits-all approach does not serve public safety or justice.”