Episode 5: 'The Teenage Brain Is Like a Sports Car'

Caught | Mar 21, 2018

Stephen is one of thousands of so-called "juvenile lifers" who have an unexpected shot at freedom today. Up until 2005, most juveniles could be sentenced just as harshly as adults: that meant life without parole, even the death penalty. Then a landmark Supreme Court decision made executing juvenile offenders illegal, and sentencing guidelines began to change. The court was swayed after hearing about teenage brain development. 

Caught is supported, in part, by the Anne Levy Fund, Margaret Neubart Foundation, the John and Gwen Smart Family Foundation, and the Economic Hardship Reporting Project.

Be alert for scams. WNYC never asks for nor accepts money for coverage or interviews. Anyone making such a request does not represent WNYC.

Top Stories

NYC's school PTA fundraising gap is growing, mirroring broader racial disparities

Place Your Bets!

Defending the Midterms from Donald Trump

Mayor Zohran Mamdani on the Stakes of the Midterms

YOU ARE ONLINE