America continues to shackle children in juvenile courts,though few pose a flight or safety risk. This troubling practice must end
Adults accused of the most heinous crimes regularly near into courtrooms without restraints. But every day youngsters accused of minor transgressions are led into the courthouse in irons. Young people who have been shackled in court frequently represent themselves as looking and feeling like criminals. This can be a self-fulfilling prophecy. Their humiliation, particularly when family members see them in chains, and is so profound and defeating that many mental health experts say it causes permanent harm.
Why carry out our juvenile courts persist in this troubling practice?
Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com