Fort Myers effects from Supreme Court ruling on Juveniles

A good follow-up from the News-Press regarding the recent Supreme Court ruling abolishing automatic mandatory-life sentences for juveniles.  These case were already being re-litigated following the Graham v. Florida ruling a couple of years ago.  The judge must hold a new sentencing hearing for the defendants mentioned here (from the Cash Feenz killings case).  I agree with David Brener’s take in the article- Washington may still get a life sentence, based on his participation in the case, but that Toye probably should be given a reduction.  She was a relatively minor-participant, was under the duress of her controlling, abusive boyfriend at the time, and was very much a juvenile in her mental state.  No one disagrees that she deserves severe punishment, but does she warrant the same punishment of the older boys who masterminded and carried out the killings?  Some would say yes, but the Supreme Court seems to be sending a message that it may not make sense, depending on circumstances.

3 responses to “Fort Myers effects from Supreme Court ruling on Juveniles

  1. Pingback: Commentary on Juvenile Mandatory sentence rulings | crimcourts : A Criminal Law Blog

  2. Pingback: Ashley Toye – Cash Feenz case update | crimcourts : A Criminal Law Blog

  3. Pingback: Ashley Toye – Cash Feenz Case is on Dr. Phil This Afternoon | crimcourts : A Criminal Law Blog

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