Juveniles Could Face Serious Penalties for Violating the Law

Adolescents are at an impressionable stage in their lives. As their brains continue to develop, they absorb and retain the various input and stimuli they encounter in their worlds. Often, the information they receive causes them to make mistakes that get them into trouble with the law. Unfortunately, their actions could have severe consequences on their futures.

Recently, a 17-year-old Texas juvenile was arrested for allegedly threatening to brandish a gun at his high school. Students reported that the young man said he had a gun in his backpack and would start shooting. They claimed he acted like he was pulling the weapon from one of the pockets.

Police were called to the school and searched the student, but they did not find a gun on him. Although the young man did not have a weapon, Texas Education Code 37.125 specifically prohibits threatening to wield a firearm at a school with the intent to cause harm to others or property.

The exhibition of firearms offense is a third-degree felony. Penalties could include up to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

The young man was also charged with assaulting a public servant, criminal mischief, resisting arrest, and possession of marijuana.

He has been arrested and is being held on $335,000 bond in Kaufman County Jail.

When Juveniles Can Be Tried as Adults

In Texas, when a minor under 18 years of age is alleged to have violated state law, their case could be handled in juvenile court. Because the student was 17 years old at the time of the offense, he could fall under this definition.

However, depending on the type of offense, the juvenile court may transfer jurisdiction of a minor’s, between 14 and 17 years of age, case to a criminal court, where the process is much different. Whereas the juvenile system focuses on rehabilitation for delinquent conduct, the criminal justice system seeks to punish offenders. If convicted, the juvenile faces the same penalties as an adult would.

Contact Shane Phelps Law. for Skilled Defense

If your child is alleged to have committed a crime in College Station, their case could be heard in juvenile or criminal court. Regardless of the type of charge they’re facing or where the matter will be tried, our attorneys are here to provide you and your child with effective legal counsel. We will fight to protect their rights and work toward a favorable outcome on their behalf.