A new report released by Human Rights Watch is shedding light on racial disparities in New Jersey’s youth justice system due to a law that gives prosecutors nearly unchecked power to decide which juvenile offenders will be tried as adults. The report found that children of color, particularly Black youth, are disproportionately waived into the adult system, with Black youth being 19 times more likely to be waived than white youth. Additionally, the report highlighted the harmful consequences of waiving young people into the adult system, including higher rates of depression, suicidal ideation, and reoffending.
The report called for changes to the current system, suggesting that legislation should be passed to reduce and eventually eliminate the prosecution of children in adult court. It also recommended restoring judicial oversight and providing regular training for prosecutors on adolescent brain development and youth trauma. The report emphasized the need for a more fair and just approach to juvenile justice in New Jersey.
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