RE “FOR the youngest killers, a glimmer of redemption’’ (Editorial, Oct. 2): More and more states are reexamining their statutes regarding life without parole for juvenile offenders. Such actions suggest a gradual shift in public attitudes, reflecting the growing recognition that adolescents differ from adults in how they behave, solve problems, and make decisions. They’re also more likely to mature and change over time, enhancing the possibility of rehabilitation.
In 2005, the Supreme Court ruled that the juvenile death penalty was unconstitutional. Writing for the majority, Justice Anthony Kennedy said, “It would be misguided to equate the failing of a minor with those of an adult, for a greater possibility exists that a minor’s character deficiencies will be reformed.’’ The same reasoning is valid with respect to life without parole. Hopefully, the Massachusetts Legislature will concur, and decide that it’s time to stop sentencing young people to die in jail.
Dr. David Fassler
Burlington, Vt.
The writer is a clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of Vermont.
