Michigan heads toward rehabilitation rather than punishment when dealing with violent juvenile offenders. Carl Marlinga, Macomb County prosecutor, said that when dealing with violent juvenile offenders, the probability a juvenile can be rehabilitated must be considered. The offenders are in a time of their life where there can still be significant change.
Recent legislation gives prosecutors more autonomy when dealing with violent offenders.
The law now allows a prosecutor to determine whether to charge an offender as an adult or a juvenile. Michael Hodges, assistant prosecutor for Lapeer County, said there are many different options in dealing with the offenders. According to Hodges, the courts may deal with offenders within a wide range, varying from informal probation to juvenile detention centers. Marlinga said a problem results because there doesn't appear to be any thoughtful rehabilitation focus for juveniles or inmates within the Department of Corrections. Both systems still need work.