Today, Assemblyman Brian Curran (Lynbrook-21st A.D.) joined Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski), his Republican colleagues and several district attorneys at a press conference to call for the end of Raise the Age. Raise the Age is a controversial policy that allows minors who commit crimes to escape justice by having their cases referred to family court.

“Raise the Age has been a disaster, that is why I originally voted against it when it first came up, and why I am calling for its dismantling now. In 2022, voters in New York sent a message to the government that crime is a serious issue. I, for one, am committed to listening to that message. We cannot allow violent criminals to run rampant on our streets just because they are 6 months away from turning 18,” said Curran.

In 2021, out of 3,303 felony arrests of 16- and 17-year-olds, only 257 resulted in a felony conviction, these include offenders who committed murder, sex offenses and robbery. Also once these offenders turn 18 their records are sealed so if they commit any other crimes, they are treated as first time offenders, even though they could have committed violent felonies in the past.

“The fact we are treating those who have committed violent crimes such as murder, as if they are the victims is unacceptable. These people belong behind bars, not allowed to go home to their parents, while their victims must go without receiving any justice. That is why my Minority colleagues, and I will fight to end disastrous policies like Raise the Age. I invite my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to join us,” concluded Curran.