Shelby County needs to treat kids in detention like kids

By , Guest Columnist Updated: February 10, 2020 4:00 AM CT | Published: February 10, 2020 4:00 AM CT
Guest Columnist

Marcy Mistrett

Marcy Mistrett is the CEO of the Campaign for Youth Justice, a national initiative focused on ending the practice of prosecuting, sentencing, and incarcerating youth under the age of 18 in the adult criminal justice system. 

Research has repeatedly determined that when we treat kids like kids, public safety outcomes improve. If the Shelby County Sheriff, DA and judges want to combat serious crimes, they need to stop investing in failed “get tough” strategies for youthful offenders.


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