The Brief
- A 16-year-old, George Spencer Jr., is being charged as an adult for two drive-by shootings, with State Attorney Monique Worrell arguing the juvenile system cannot handle violent crimes.
- Critics argue that transferring juveniles to the adult system increases recidivism, while others, including Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, believe violent offenders must face harsher consequences.
- Recent legislative changes have toughened penalties for minors with firearm offenses, but debates continue over the best approach to juvenile justice reform.
ORLANDO, Fla. – Two drive-by shootings are putting the spotlight on the juvenile justice system. Investigators say a 16-year-old is responsible for pulling the trigger.
While law enforcement officers were searching for the teen, two deputies say they spotted him with a gun and wound up pulling the trigger themselves. The teenager wasn’t hit, but another person was hit in the foot.
State attorney wants teen behind bars
What they’re saying:
The State Attorney for Orange and Osceola County, Monique Worrell, wants the teen to stay behind bars.…