There is no question that teenagers are headstrong and determined. While this can be a good quality in some cases, it can also prove to be harmful when it comes to teen involvement in criminal activity. Teens often act out without considering the long-term consequences of their actions. Many studies show that the teenage brain may be to blame. Areas of the brain that are used to make rational decisions and control aggressive behavior are not fully developed in teens. The need to fit in with a peer group can also influence teenagers’ actions.
An 18-year-old boy is currently facing criminal charges for a robbery that was first construed by a liquor store owner to be a prank. The teenager was part of a group of teens that wore masks as they entered the liquor store shortly before closing. The boy demanded everyone’s money after shooting three rounds into the air in order to get the attention of patrons.
The Jamaican teen has a previous record of two juvenile robbery convictions. He has also violated his probation resulting in a 3-year prison sentence. The teenager accepted a plea deal, requiring him to plead guilty to a criminal attempt to commit first-degree robbery. He was sentenced to 5 years in prison.
Teenagers are impressionable, and when mixed into the wrong crowd, can be led down a road of juvenile mischief. A criminal conviction can result in devastating penalties, including fines, community service, jail time and a criminal record. A criminal defense attorney may be able to provide vital legal assistance and help teenagers get the rehabilitation that they need to become productive members of the community.
Source: CT Post, “Failed robbery attempt earns Stamford teen prison time,” John Nickerson, Apr. 28, 2014.
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