UPDATE: New York lawmakers are gearing up for a critical debate over the 2017 Raise the Age law, which currently shields youth offenders aged 16 and 17 from adult court proceedings. The urgency is palpable as key stakeholders, including newly appointed NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, advocate reform amid rising crime statistics involving minors.
At a Citizens Budget Commission event in September, Tisch expressed her strong support for amending the law, stating, “The number of kids that are victims of shootings is up 83%. Since those laws changed, the number of kids that are shooters is up almost 100%.” These alarming figures underscore the pressing need for legislative review as New York City prepares for heightened discussions in the upcoming session.
Lawmakers and district attorneys gathered earlier this month at the annual SOMOS conference in Puerto Rico, where the fate of the law was a major focus. Bronx DA Darcel Clark has been advocating for amendments since 2021, while Brooklyn DA Eric Gonzalez‘s office remains tight-lipped on the ongoing discussions.
Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, a firm supporter of the existing law, remains resistant to changes, emphasizing the importance of judicial discretion in handling youth cases. “Hopefully we will continue to allow the judges the discretion they need to make the best decisions,” she told Spectrum News 1.
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has confirmed that Tisch will remain as NYPD Commissioner when he takes office in January, solidifying her influence in Albany next year. Tisch has cited the law’s unintended consequences, arguing that it has fostered a “consequence-free environment” for young offenders.
The District Attorneys Association of the State of New York is also pressuring the state Legislature to take swift action. DAASNY President Mary Pat Donnelly highlighted the challenges posed by family court’s sealed proceedings, stating, “We need the ability to know what’s going on in family courts to make informed decisions.”
While Tisch and other district attorneys do not seek to repeal the law entirely, they agree that significant adjustments are necessary. Walker countered, reinforcing that justice is best served through family court, allowing judges to assess cases individually. “There’s opportunities for both sides to be heard,” she remarked.
As the debate heats up, Governor Kathy Hochul has yet to publicly solidify her stance on the proposed reforms. Her office referred to earlier comments advocating comprehensive reviews of criminal justice laws. The Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Legislative Caucus is actively working on this issue, stressing that any changes must prioritize funding and services over amendments to the law itself.
Caucus chair Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages stated, “Attempts to change the law through the budget or through prosecutors who have not fully implemented Raise the Age are irresponsible.” She emphasizes that the focus should remain on protecting children while ensuring adequate resources are available to address youth crime.
As the clock ticks down to the legislative session, stakeholders are poised for ongoing negotiations. The urgency of the situation is reflected in the stark realities on the ground, with community safety at the forefront of discussions. Expect more updates on this developing story as it unfolds in the coming weeks.
