The documentary, “They Call Us Monsters”, goes inside Sylmar Juvenile hall’s segregated juvenile unit. Three teenagers await trial and spend their days and evenings waiting to find out their fate. The film “They Call Us Monsters” takes place in a segregated unit for juveniles being tried as adults at Sylmar Juvenile Hall. It introduces three teenagers who are awaiting trial and spend their days and nights waiting to learn the fate of their violent crimes.
The film also explores the Californian legislature’s efforts to reform juvenile laws and give them a second chance. When the young people collaborated on the screenplay, Juan and Jarad shared stories about their own personal experiences instead of what they claimed were their friends. I found it interesting that while they were open about their feelings on camera, they refused to reveal their identities as the people they discussed in their stories. The workshop gave the youths the opportunity to express themselves. Juan and his brother Jarad seemed to be proud of what they accomplished in writing and editing this screenplay. I was surprised to learn that Antonio’s physical and mental condition was better inside the facility while he was doing his time than it was when he got out. I wondered if Juan and Jarad would have benefitted more or suffered the same disappointment if this opportunity had been presented. Antonio was released from prison into a dysfunctional family situation. According to his brother, he returned to his old habits and began using marijuana and drugs. Juan felt unaccepted and competed with his brother, Jarad, because he had seen his stepfather try to commit suicide. Jarad’s mum was also concerned because she had known that Jarad, prior to his arrest, would get into serious trouble. But she didn’t have the resources available to help him. I realized that at this point in the movie, this was a great example of how rehabilitation can start long before any crime has been committed. In California juveniles from 14-17 can receive sentences that are longer than they would normally expect to live. Antonio, Juan, Jarad and others are facing prison sentences exceeding 90 years because they committed attempted murder or murder in the first degree. The film shows that youths differ from adults in many ways. Richard Bloom states that young people lack judgement, impulse control, and are unable to understand risk or consequences. The system appears to be more focused on punishing offenders than rehabilitating them. The film also highlights the fact that most states still enforce juvenile sentences with no parole, which is another example of the system’s agenda. By granting juveniles a chance to change their ways, the teens can overcome their criminal past and transform into a new version of themselves that is ready to return to society. One can argue that juveniles must be tried in adult court because their crimes are similar. It is not the age that prevents juveniles from engaging in criminal activity. Therefore, it should not determine the extent of punishment. The age does not matter. Crimes are crimes. The mental capacity of children should allow them to discern between right and wrong. The victims’ families and violent offenders should receive severe punishments for crimes such a murder, assault, or rape. This could significantly reduce recidivism, as youths might be less likely to repeat crimes due to fear of what could happen to them. The juvenile would be in a better position to benefit since they would face a jury rather than a single court judge. There are several ways to stop juvenile delinquency.
It all starts with parents. They must establish a healthy and strong relationship with their kids. As a child I remember my parents as being very loving, caring and patient with me. However, they were also strict when I misbehaved. Children can learn the importance and consequences of laws by being taught at an early age. It is important to encourage youth to be active during their spare time by implementing free programs. These include tutoring sessions, joining clubs that share a common interest, or engaging in physical activities. Prop 57 gives nonviolent criminals a chance to be released early after serving some time. The reduction of overcrowded prisons and the saving of money for the states are some of the major impacts. For inmates who wish to have their sentences reduced, they must demonstrate good conduct and participate in education activities. Prop 260 was a measure that allowed for the review of juvenile cases based on their age.
