Teens In Prisons

Many wonder if teens should be held in prison for their crimes. This topic can cause a debate for some of society. Majority of small crimes are committed by teenagers because they think that their consequences won’t be as harsh.

Students at Crete-Monee were asked if they think teenagers should attend juvenile detention centers or prisons.

“It depends on what crimes are being committed, you know intense crimes versus smaller crimes,” said Damaris Ford.

Another student gave their thoughts on this topic and it was very similar to what Ford said.

“I think whether or not teenagers should go to prison depends on the age. If you committed a petty crime at age twelve or fourteen then prison shouldn’t even be an option,” said Candace Smith.

There was a disagreement on what both Ford and Smith said from one of their fellow classmates about the matter.

“Yes, I think teens should attend prisons because they are old enough to know right from wrong,” said Jayla Allen.

Overall, the majority of students that were asked about teenagers going to prisons said yes depending on their age.

Students had some perspective on teenagers attending prisons and what crimes they commit in their environment that may affect authorities decisions. Their viewpoints varied slightly, but overall had the same concept.

“If a teenager killed someone, raped someone and committed identity fraud, without a doubt I think they should be in prison instead of juvenile detention centers. Those types of crimes are the worse crimes and no mercy should be given,” said Ford

“Of course, if you committed a murder then you should go to prison. People use age as an excuse to say they did not know exactly what they were doing. At a certain point in life you should know right from wrong and I think they should be punished,” said Smith.

Furthermore, students were asked what age do you think is okay for teenagers to be with adults in prison.

“Age seventeen is okay to go to prison because you’re almost an adult and if you don’t know the rules if life or how to conduct yourself in society then you deserve to be in prison,” said Ford.

“I personally feel like around age sixteen and up depending on the crime should qualify for prison time. Teens around that age are not stupid. They are old enough to know what they are getting themselves into and should suffer the consequences,” said Smith.

Ford and Smith had a slight disagreement on age, but they both had valid points on their perspectives.

Overall, students of Crete-Monee feel that when you are a teenager you should know the rules and should be responsible for your own actions.