Colorado ‘bully’ now a juvenile defendant in assault case

It is all the rage these days to discuss the seriousness of bullying trends throughout the country. A recent Colorado incident caught on video and shared via YouTube made bullying a topic of conversation in the state. Now, the conversation isn’t just about bullying but also about a teenager being charged with a violent crime.

Should a 14-year-old be charged with third-degree assault for getting into a physical fight with another 14-year-old girl? According to the victim’s family as well as some of the Denver area residents, the juvenile should face the criminal charge. It is important for the age and future of juvenile suspect to always be kept in mind.

A conviction of this violent crime doesn’t just stop there. A criminal record tends to follow teenagers during the most crucial time of their lives in regards to future opportunities. Access to education and work often take a serious hit when a juvenile has been convicted of a criminal offense.

The social media trend and overall popularity of technology are putting teens in danger of being more easily charged with and convicted of offenses. Prosecutors likely saw the YouTube video of the Colorado high school incident and were ready to act on what they believe that they saw. A video is a strong piece of evidence versus something less visual like mere verbal testimony.

Because of the impact that a criminal conviction will have on a juvenile’s future as an adult, it is crucial for a child’s parents to rely on aggressive, experienced legal advice from a juvenile defense law firm.

Source: Fox 31 Denver, “Middle school bully charged with crime, expelled from school district,” Tammy Vigil, April 13, 2013

• Our Colorado criminal defense lawyers handle misdemeanor juvenile assault cases and more, always keeping the future of the child in mind.