Improved Treatment for Youth in Custody and Interrogations
This act introduces new rules for the treatment of young individuals in police and federal custody, ensuring faster legal processes, timely bail considerations, and restrictions on solitary confinement. It aims to protect the rights of youth and improve their detention conditions, impacting safety and justice within the legal system.
Key points
Youth (up to 21 years old) have a right to a speedy trial – charges must be dismissed if the trial does not begin within 60 days of arrest.
Initial detention hearings must occur no later than the second working day after custody, and parents must be notified.
Prohibition of solitary confinement for youth unless they pose a serious and immediate risk, and only for a maximum of 3 hours.
Youth interrogations must be audio and video recorded; recordings serve as evidence, and unrecorded statements may be inadmissible in court.
Restrictions on the use of restraints like handcuffs on youth during court proceedings, unless absolutely necessary.
Mandatory training for law enforcement officers on police-youth interactions, including de-escalation and mental health crisis intervention.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_44
Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18]
Process start date: 2023-01-09