Twenty years ago, two teenagers were sentenced to life without parole after they were involved in a drive-by shooting that took the life of my 3-year-old son, Casson Xavier Evans.
I know the pain of losing a child. I also know the power of restorative justice, healing and second chances.
Prosecutors who are opposing common-sense changes to our state s juvenile sentencing scheme say that they are doing it on behalf of victims. They do not speak for me or for the many other victims and family members who support sensible reforms. We hold a variety of perspectives and many of us understand that extreme sentences for children do not make our communities safer.
I believe Senate Bills 180 and 181, introduced by state Sens. Chari Jahn and Laura Woods, strike the perfect balance of holding young people accountable and caring for the needs of victims.
Sharletta Evans, Aurora
This letter was published in the May 5 edition.
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