Narrative: Gangs Scenario 2, Scene 2, Decision A: Consequences
Legal
If A.J. is 16 years or older, his case would be directly filed into Adult Court. A.J. would be charged with Assault With a Deadly Weapon (Class A1 misdemeanor, 1 -150 days in jail/prison) for the assault on Oscar, Communicating Threats (Class 1 misdemeanor, 1 – 150 days in jail/prison) for threatening Oscar, Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon (Class D felony, 38 – 201 months in prison), and Assault With a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury (Class E felony, 15 – 85 months in prison) if the homeless man is seriously injured.
If A.J. is 14 to 16 years old, the Prosecutor could ask to have A.J. waived to Adult Court. If he is less than 14 years old, the case would stay at Juvenile Court and A.J. could be sent to a Secure Treatment Facility or Juvenile Department of Correction Facility until he is 18 years of age.
School
Be aware of what your school’s policy is on this issue, because some schools have a zero-tolerance stance on such behaviors. These charges could result in suspension or expulsion for a full year.
Medical
The homeless man was rushed into the operating room for an exploratory laparotomy (incision in the abdomen) with injuries noted to the lung, diaphragm, and spleen. The diaphragm and spleen were repaired and a chest tube was placed. The doctors managed to save his life.
Emotional
Imagine how this experience might affect each of the people involved, including the victims, the perpetrators, as well as their family and friends. Different people are affected differently.
If you or a friend are being pressured to be in a gang, make sure you tell someone you trust (such as a teacher, family member, friend, police officer). Gangs are not the only way to “fit in.”
Resources