|
Police Chief, Former NC Supreme Court Justice Join Bipartisan Team of Legislators Calling for Juvenile Justice Reform Press Conference, Tuesday, June 7, 1:30 p.m., Legislative Press Room |
| Raleigh, NC – With crossover looming and legislative leaders looking to adjourn in June, law enforcement experts are joining other bipartisan advocates calling on lawmakers to raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction from 16- to 18-years-old.Former NC Supreme Court Justice Robert Orr and former President of the N.C. Association of Chiefs of Police Frank Palombo, will join the bipartisan team of legislators led by Representative Marilyn Avila (R-Wake) urging lawmakers to consider and pass two bills — HB 632 and SB 506.
Each bill would prevent crime and save taxpayers millions, and each currently sits in legislative limbo. Forty-eight other states have already raised the age in order to both appropriately punish young people for minor crimes and put them on track to lead productive, responsible lives. Young people who commit serious crimes would remain in the adult system. “Now, more than ever, North Carolina must not just work harder, but work smarter, to be successful,” said Avila. “Bills to raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction represent an excellent opportunity to do just that. They will keep our communities safer, help ensure that our young people become productive citizens and, in the long run, save taxpayers millions.” The press conference will be held in the legislative press room at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7, just days before the scheduled crossover deadline. WHAT: Statewide law and justice leaders (Orr and Palombo) join the bipartisan team of legislators calling on House and Senate leaders to consider bills to raise the age of juvenile jurisdiction this legislative session. WHO:
WHEN: Tuesday, June 7, 1:30 p.m. WHERE: Legislative Press Room |