UPDATE: New York lawmakers are poised for a heated debate as calls intensify to reform the 2017 Raise the Age law that currently shields youth offenders from being tried as adults. The discussions, fueled by rising crime rates among young individuals, are set to dominate the legislative session starting in January.
Just announced: Newly appointed NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch has expressed strong support for amending this controversial law, stating, “The number of kids that are victims of shootings is up 83%. Since those laws changed, the number of kids that are shooters is up almost 100%.” Tisch’s comments during a September 2023 Citizens Budget Commission event have added urgency to the reform conversation, highlighting a stark reality that many lawmakers are now grappling with.
The Raise the Age law, which moved 16- and 17-year-olds out of adult court, has faced mounting criticism from police and district attorneys who argue it complicates their ability to handle youth offenders effectively. Bronx DA Darcel Clark and Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez have been vocal about the need for adjustments, with Clark supporting amendments since 2021.
At the recent SOMOS conference in Puerto Rico, key stakeholders, including Clark and Gonzalez, convened to discuss the law’s implications. While Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, a staunch ally of the original law, described the discussions as “productive,” she firmly opposes any changes, arguing for judicial discretion in youth cases.
As the conversation unfolds, Governor Kathy Hochul remains noncommittal on the issue. Her office referred to earlier comments where she emphasized a comprehensive review of all laws, stating, “I will be looking at all the laws as I get back to the legislative session.”
The urgency of the matter is underscored by the District Attorneys Association of the State of New York, which is pushing for immediate legislative action. DAASNY President Mary Pat Donnelly highlighted the challenges faced in family courts, advocating for transparency in youth offender cases. “We need to be able to look at the offender’s history and background,” she stressed.
The implications of these discussions are significant, as they directly impact the safety and wellbeing of New York’s youth. Tisch’s statement that “it is maddening” to see the rising crime rates among young offenders has resonated with many who share concerns about public safety.
Moving forward, lawmakers will continue to engage in dialogue over the next several months. Walker assured that negotiations will persist, saying, “We will keep having meetings — we will continue to sit down.” The outcome of these discussions could reshape the future of New York’s youth justice system.
As the legislative session approaches, the stakes are high. With the potential for significant policy shifts, the conversations surrounding the Raise the Age law are more critical than ever. Advocates and critics alike are watching closely, as changes could arise swiftly in response to the ongoing crime crisis affecting communities across the state.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
