Teenagers are more likely to plead guilty to crimes they did not commit because they are less able to make mature decisions, new research shows.
Experts have called for major changes to the criminal justice system after finding innocent younger people are far more likely admit to offences, even when innocent, than adults.
Those who carried out the study say teenagers should not be allowed to make deals where they face a lesser charge in return for pleading guilty. The study suggests young people are more likely to be enticed by these deals, and take what they see as an advantageous offer even when they have done nothing wrong.
Most criminal convictions in the UK and the USA occur as the result of guilty pleas, rather than trial. This means the majority of convictions are the result of decisions made by people accused of crimes rather than jurors.
The research was carried out in the USA, where a system known as "plea bargaining" is utilised, but the academics say their discovery has implications for countries across the world that allow teenagers accused of crimes to receive a sentence or charge reduction by pleading guilty. Specifically, the researchers recommend restricting reductions that may entice innocent teenagers into pleading guilty and making it easier for teenagers to change pleas after they have been entered.
Other research has found adolescents are less able to perceive risk and resist the influence of peers because of developmental immaturity.
https://phys.org/news/2018-03-teenagers-guilty-crimes-didnt-commit.html
-- submitted from IRC
(Score: 2) by black6host on Saturday March 17 2018, @07:09PM (1 child)
Well, I agree with you as far as not showing all your cards. However, it must be known that you're willing to take it to the mat. I'll never appear to operate from fear. I appreciate your input very much and will incorporate it into our strategy, where applicable.
(Score: 2) by RS3 on Saturday March 17 2018, @08:43PM
Cool, thanks. My only concern is that you're on their turf, and they're very aggressive, gotta win at all costs. They'll lie and cheat because they're pretty sure they'll get away with it. They love intimidating. You can't hide that you're willing to fight, but don't inspire them, it won't help your cause.