2 Bills Benefiting Juveniles Serving Life Sentences Clear Hurdle
DENVER (CBS4) - Sentencing guidelines for Colorado's youngest murderers were up for debate at the state Capitol on Wednesday as some say juvenile killers are punished too harshly and they want a change in the law.
It was an explosive issue that stretched into the night. The bill follows a 2012 U.S. Supreme Court ruling calling life without parole for juveniles cruel and unusual punishment.
Davena Frazzini was 2 months old when her father, then 17-year-old Phillip Trujillo, shot and killed another teen in Thornton. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
"I have always visited my father, so that means I have grown up in the prison system as well," Davena said.
The bill being considered would drastically alter prison terms for Trujillo and other juveniles sentenced to life, changing the sentencing range to 30 to 50 years with parole.
State Sen. Laura Woods, D-Arvada, says many juvenile convicts shouldn't have been sentenced like adults.
"It's because they're kids, they react and they think about rewards more than consequences," Woods said. "They're risk-takers."
A standing-room-only gallery included the parents of Jessica Ridgeway, who was killed by then 17-year-old Austin Sigg, although he would not be eligible for an early release.
The El Paso County District Attorney Dan May says the bill does not fairly consider victims.
"Let's call this the way it is. This is unconscionable and the way you're handling this is disgusting," May said.
Supporters say Colorado should give consideration to juvenile convicts who have shown maturity and growth.
Gail Palone testified in anguish. Her son Matthew was murdered by a juvenile 20 years ago.
"How can justice ever be done as long as a sentence can be undone?" Palone said.
The Senate Judiciary Committee voted 3-2 Wednesday to approve the bill to help those inmates seek new sentences. Another bill would allow any youth offender who has served at least 20 years to apply for a transition program that could allow them to seek early parole if completed. Both bills passed and will go to the Senate floor.
LINK: Senate Bill 16-181
