Major violent offences are being carried out by children more often. While some would argue that they should get the same treatment as grown-ups because this would ensure that the victims are given justice, I believe that they are not old enough to be aware of what they are doing, and rehabilitation is a better option.
On the one hand, treating young violent criminals as adults can provide a sense of justice for the victims. For example, when a loved one is killed or seriously injured, it can be difficult for the victim’s family to accept that the perpetrator faces no significant punishment just because of their age. The mother of Jamie Bilger, whose son was murdered, expressed how it felt like reliving the crime when she heard that the young offenders were released early due to their age. This illustrates how, for some, justice is incomplete unless these criminals are held fully accountable.
On the other hand, many argue that young people, particularly those under 18, may not fully understand the consequences of their actions. Their brains are still developing, and they may not have the maturity to comprehend the full impact of their violence. For this reason, in the UK, young murderers are often rehabilitated and given new identities to help them reintegrate into society. This process not only allows them to start anew but also reduces the likelihood of reoffending. I believe this approach is more beneficial, as it offers young offenders the chance to reform and lead better lives, which can be more constructive for both them and society.
In conclusion, while punishing young offenders like adults can offer some justice to victims, I believe rehabilitation provides a more long-term solution. Treating young criminals as individuals who can change, rather than as hardened adults, is a more humane and effective approach.