URGENT UPDATE: New York lawmakers are poised for a heated debate over potential changes to the controversial Raise the Age law, which currently prevents youth offenders aged 16 and 17 from being tried as adults. As discussions heat up, incoming New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani has made it clear that reforming this law will be a top priority next year, especially with the backing of newly appointed NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
At a recent Citizens Budget Commission event, Tisch stated, “Though I believe that the law was well-intentioned, we need now to roll up our sleeves and make adjustments based on the realities we are seeing on the ground.” This urgent call for reform is echoed by numerous district attorneys across the state who argue that the current policy complicates their ability to handle cases involving youthful offenders effectively.
The discussion over the law intensified during the annual SOMOS conference earlier this month in Puerto Rico, where Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark and Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez shared their concerns. Clark has been vocal about amending the Raise the Age law since 2021, while Gonzalez’s office remains tight-lipped about the ongoing negotiations.
Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, a staunch defender of the current law, expressed her reservations about potential changes. “Hopefully, we will continue to allow judges the discretion they need to make the best decisions,” she told Spectrum News 1. Walker emphasizes that justice should be determined in family court, where cases involving young offenders are typically processed.
The momentum for reform is building. Tisch highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that the number of children who are victims of shootings has surged by 83% since the implementation of the Raise the Age law, with juvenile shooters nearly doubling during the same period. “The data is telling us…we need to listen to that data,” she asserted.
The District Attorneys Association of the State of New York is increasing pressure on the Legislature to take definitive action during the upcoming budget discussions. Current challenges include the handling of youth cases in family courts, which are often sealed, preventing law enforcement and DAs from accessing critical offender histories. DAASNY President Mary Pat Donnelly emphasized, “We need to be able to look at the offender’s history…to make informed decisions about whether they should be retained in adult court.”
Despite the push for reform, Walker remains firm against changes, arguing that the law serves its purpose when cases are adjudicated in family court. “There’s opportunities for both sides to be heard,” she stated, indicating that negotiations will continue. “We will keep having meetings and sit down together.”
Governor Kathy Hochul has yet to take a definitive stance on the proposed changes but has indicated she will review all laws as the legislative session resumes. In previous comments, Hochul stated, “I will be looking at what is best for the people of this state,” reflecting her moderate approach to criminal justice reforms.
The Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Legislative Caucus is actively engaged in discussions about the policy, suggesting that the focus should remain on enhancing funding and services for youth rather than altering the law. Caucus chair Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages highlighted, “Attempts to change the law through the budget…are irresponsible and misguided.”
As the debate continues, the outcome could significantly affect how New York handles youth offenses. With pressure mounting from various stakeholders and a looming 2024 election, the future of the Raise the Age law hangs in the balance. Expect further developments as lawmakers reconvene to tackle this urgent issue.
