August 2010 Archives » Askthejudge
11-year-old stirs up Internet controversy
Once again, we see the consequences of unsupervised Internet use by children. Jessica is 11 years old and lives in Florida. She goes by the screenname of Jessi Slaughter. Jessi’s computer is in her bedroom where she creates webcam videos and socializes in chat rooms. Jessi …
Parents impose community service on daughter
Why wait for a court hearing and a judge to hand out a sentence for breaking a law? In Southlake, Texas, the parents of 16-year-old Kirstin Rausch decided to nip her curfew violation in the bud. Robert Rausch placed an ad in the local paper …
Accepting every “friend request” can be hazardous
High school senior, Lynda Lopez, had done all the hard work and looked forward to a great college experience. The Illinois resident had applied for universities and scholarships in her junior year. Then in October, 2009, she received word that she was a finalist for …
Hate crime murder by 14-year-old goes to trial
Larry King was 15 and in the 8th grade at E.O. Green junior High in California. He had told a friend that he was gay and began cross-dressing and wearing makeup to class. Larry was bullied at school, and some of his teachers tried to …
Do I have to register as a sex offender?
Sex offender registration is not limited to adults convicted of sex crimes. Many states require juveniles to register with law enforcement if found delinquent for certain offenses. Laws differ from state to state as well as the length of time you’re required to remain in …
What are juvenile diversion programs?
If you have been charged with a minor crime, usually a low misdemeanor or petty offense, you may be eligible for what is called “diversion” or a “deferred judgment.” This opportunity is common nationwide in both adult and juvenile court. Diversion is not available for felonies. Diversion …