Watch this clip (22:17) about the complicated issues the juvenile justice system handles youth of color. In the video, you will be exposed to the real-life case of George Stinney, Jr., George had “confessed” to murdering two young white girls, ages 8 and 11, and was tried roughly one month after his arrest. George’s parents left town, fearing reprisal. Additionally, his counsel inadequately represented him, contributing to the trial lasting only a few hours; jury deliberation took only 10 minutes. He was sentenced to death and not informed of his right to appeal. George was executed in the electric chair six weeks after his trial. His frame was too small and because the guards could not properly secure him in the chair, the executioner’s first round of electricity caused his mask to fall from his face.
The case focuses on youth advocates’ fight that juvenile punishment must be absent of the legal rights afforded to adults.
As you watch the clip, consider and answer the following questions:
1. How did the criminal justice system improperly handle this case?
2. What are the implications of trying juveniles as adults?
3. Based on the assigned textbook reading, how has the juvenile justice system evolved to ensure that such incidences that occurred in George’s case will not happen again?