New juvenile crime law could send teen offenders to adult court
New juvenile crime legislation is set to bring major changes to Mississippi’s court system this summer.
The Picayune Police Department is now warning parents and teens about Senate Bill 2710, which takes effect July 1.
Under the new law, juveniles accused of certain violent crimes while in possession of a firearm could be tried directly in circuit court instead of youth court, exposing them to adult felony charges and harsher penalties.
The law includes offenses such as murder, aggravated assault, robbery, kidnapping, drive-by shootings, and shooting into a dwelling.
Police are encouraging parents to speak with their children about peer pressure, social media conflicts, and the long-term consequences that can come with criminal activity.
