Baltimore County, Maryland – A group of minors in Baltimore County has faced charges following a violent assault on another minor at the Kings Mill Apartment complex in Essex. The incident occurred on Friday, March 7, and was captured in several videos that circulated on social media. Despite sustaining injuries, the victim is expected to recover.
Police have identified eight minors as the alleged attackers, but due to their ages and state laws, only five can be prosecuted. The charges do not include a hate crime, according to authorities.
In recent changes to Maryland juvenile justice laws, children between the ages of 10 and 12 can now be charged with offenses like illegal gun possession, auto theft, animal cruelty, and third-degree sexual offenses. Prior to this adjustment, minors had to be at least 13 years old to face such charges. Additionally, the state’s attorney’s office now has jurisdiction to review cases involving young individuals under the Department of Juvenile Services’ supervision.
Moreover, modifications to juvenile justice laws have extended the probation periods for misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanor offenses now carry a probation period of one year, up from six months. Similarly, the initial probation period for felony offenses has been doubled to two years.
Governor Wes Moore introduced the Commission on Juvenile Justice Reform and Emerging Best Practices in Maryland last year. The commission focuses on evaluating programs aimed at diverting children from the juvenile justice system and reviewing important policies related to the treatment and programming for females within the juvenile justice system.
Adam Thompson, a digital content producer for CBS Baltimore, reported on this story. Thompson’s work covers a range of topics related to local news and events in the Baltimore area, offering insights into various issues impacting the community.