Lawmakers work toward solution on juvenile justice

Lawmakers are moving toward consensus on changes to Maryland’s juvenile justice system, discussing how to address crime by children ages 10 to 12 and get them into rehabilitation programs that can help.

Democratic lawmakers plan to crack down on youth crime in the coming weeks

Children as young as 10 could potentially go to court for auto thefts and handgun violations, under one proposal key Democratic lawmakers detailed and plan to push for in the legislature.

Moore stresses accountability, rehabilitation for dealing with youth crime

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Gov. Wes Moore said Tuesday he expects “robust debates” about juvenile justice in coming weeks – and that his administration will be an “active participant” trying to balance rehabilitation with cracking down on crime.  “The hallmark of…

Maryland Republicans pledge to ‘restore balance’ with public safety agenda

The package would increase penalties for gun theft and violent firearms offenses, authorize law enforcement to search vehicles based on the smell of cannabis alone and limit eligibility for bail or reduced sentences for those charged with or convicted of violent crimes.

Juvenile reform bill to prohibit life without parole

Lawmakers are pushing for the passage of the Juvenile Restoration Act, which will prohibit the Maryland judiciary from sentencing a minor to life without parole, and allow those who have served a minimum of 20 years to petition for a sentence reduction. The bill is receiving widespread support from advocacy groups and celebrities across the county.

Hogan issues first paroles for juvenile lifers in decades

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan has paroled three individuals sentenced to life in a correctional facility for crimes they committed before turning 18. This is the first instance of such a release in 24 years.

Md. juvenile agency says later school hours could curb crime

ANNAPOLIS, Maryland — A significant spike in juvenile crime from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on school days has led to a push by the state’s juvenile justice agency to shift school start and finish times. The department is advocating…