Robert Brame, a criminologist from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, co-authored a national survey which found that 30.2 percent of Americans surveyed have been arrested for a crime other than a minor traffic violation by the age of 23. This is a significant increase from 22 percent in 1965, which was when the last study of this sort was conducted.
Mr. Brame surveyed 7,335 individuals nationwide between the ages of 12 and 16. The participants were initially surveyed in 1997 and have had follow up surveys every year since then. In addition to the 8 percent increase in arrests, the study also indicated that the likelihood of a first arrest increased between late adolescence and the age of 18. The study indicated that nearly 16 percent of the individuals surveyed had been arrested by the age of 18. Brame's study did not account for racial or regional differences in arrest rates; however, other studies have indicated that the percentage of African American men and youth in poor urban areas arrested are higher than other participants.
Mr. Brame attributes the increase in arrests from 1965 to present day to more aggressive law enforcement in last 50 years and an increase in more common-place arrests, such as drug-related offenses and zero tolerance. Regardless of your thoughts regarding the merits of Mr. Brame's theories, his research has several implications from a legal standpoint. Regardless of why the increased arrests are occurring, Mr. Brame's study shows that more and more of the younger population are being arrested. This research indicates the heightened need to combat the problems that have caused such arrests to become common-place in today's society.
Mr. Brame's study also illustrates the increased need for competent attorneys equipped to represent the younger population. At such a young age, a criminal record can have disastrous consequences on the younger individual's ability to find employment or pursue a secondary education. Furthermore, a criminal record can have substantial consequences in future trials. Given these risks and consequences, it is always important to contact a competent criminal law attorney, no matter how minor the offense. I routinely work with younger individuals in my practice. While I have conducted the research of Mr. Brame, it seems I see more young Defendants in Court every day. I encourage any young person facing criminal / traffic matter to seek competent legal counsel to work with you regarding the matter.
NYTimes.com, Nearly a Third of Americans Are Arrested by Age 23, Study Finds, 12/19/11
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