In a city where violent crime is statistically down,
why does it feel like fear is rising?
This summer, Washington, D.C. has seen a wave of
unsettling headlines none more jarring than the brutal beating of Edward
Coristine, a young man who tried to protect a woman from a gang of teens in
Logan Circle. His courage was met with violence. The suspects? Teenagers. Some
as young as 15.
They were arrested. But will they be held accountable?
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Blurred city street in Washington, D.C. with the Capitol building in focus, symbolizing youth crime and justice reform."
The Law That Lets
Them Walk
Under D.C.’s Youth Rehabilitation Act, offenders under
24 can receive suspended sentences, probation, and even sealed records.
Designed to offer second chances, the law now faces scrutiny for offering too
many even to those who commit armed robbery, carjackings, and assault.
Judges have wide discretion. Teens under 16 are rarely
prosecuted as adults. And many offenders are sent to family court, where the
consequences are minimal. Yoga. Crafts. Probation.
Is it any wonder some teens don’t fear the law?
The Cost of Impunity
Residents are asking: What message are we sending?
When violent offenders walk free, what happens to the victims?
To the neighborhoods trying to heal?
To the teens who learn that consequences are optional?
Probation isn’t working. Arrests are up, but so are repeat offenses. And while curfews and National Guard deployments may offer temporary relief, they don’t address the deeper issue: a justice system that’s lost its deterrent power.
Let’s talk.
If you’ve lived this, witnessed it, or have ideas for change share them.
Because justice shouldn’t be a guessing game. And safety shouldn’t be seasonal.
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