Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Two 16 year old boys have been stealing over the past few months; specifically, money from churches; candy from concession stands; ipods, gps devices and the like from homes and vehicles. On of the boys parents found the items and turned him in. I don't think either of them have priors. What kind of sentence/consequence might they receive? Juvenile hall? probation? Fines?

Thank you in advance for your response.

Grand Rapids Michigan


Asked on 7/21/10, 7:22 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Neil O'Brien Eaton County Special Assistant Prosecuting Attorney

They'd be handled in the juvenile delinquency system, not the adult criminal system. the general age cut-off between these two courts is whether the incidents happen before or after their 17th birthdays. In the delinquency system, a probation sentence is the norm because the focus is on rehabilitation not punishment. "Fines" are a form of punishment, so fines are not issued. But, full restitution paid back to the victims is required -- and in delinquency cases, the child's parents can be ordered to co-pay any portion of the child's restitution debt. Depending on the child's needs / issues, the probation terms may include assessments for substance abuse or mental health issues plus recommended follow-up, community service, etc. Detention in a youth facility is a possibility, but usually reserved for cases where the youth is a danger to himself or others outside of a secured facility.

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Answered on 7/22/10, 5:29 am


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