Petition to Extend Act 539 to Include Offenders Under 21

Throughout the making of the podcast, Life Without: The Untold Story of Heath Stocks, we learned so much about the juvenile justice system. The many different people we spoke with helped us understand why Act 539 should be extended to include those 20 and under. We want to do what we can to help make a difference, provide information and a way to show support for the extension.  

In 2017, Act 539 was passed in Arkansas, representing a significant step forward in the fair treatment of young offenders by ensuring that those who commit crimes before the age of 18 are no longer sentenced to life without parole. This law acknowledges the potential for growth and rehabilitation in young individuals. However, recent studies suggest that brain development continues well into the mid-20s, indicating that the same considerations should be extended to those under 21. We urge lawmakers to extend the protections of Act 539 to include individuals who committed crimes before turning 21, recognizing the ongoing development and potential for rehabilitation in this age group.

Scientific Evidence

Numerous studies have shown that the human brain is not fully developed until around the age of 25. The prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and understanding consequences, is one of the last areas to mature. This ongoing development significantly impacts young adults' behavior and their ability to make sound decisions.

Research from the National Institute of Mental Health and other sources indicates that adolescents and young adults are more prone to risky behaviors and less capable of foreseeing the long-term consequences of their actions compared to fully mature adults. Additionally, trauma and abuse can further delay this development, making young people who have experienced such hardships even more vulnerable and deserving of a chance for rehabilitation. You can find more detailed information about these studies here and here. 

Impact of Abuse

Children and young adults who have been victims of abuse and neglect often face additional challenges in brain development. Studies have shown that traumatic experiences can significantly impact brain structure and function, leading to difficulties in emotional regulation, impulse control, and decision-making. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network highlights that these individuals may struggle more with maturity and are more likely to engage in criminal behavior as a coping mechanism. By extending the protections of Act 539 to those under 21, we can offer these individuals a better chance at rehabilitation and reintegration into society, rather than condemning them to a life without parole based on actions taken while their brains were still developing. More information on child traumatic stress can be found here.

Success Stories

Two incredible success stories highlight the potential for reform when juvenile offenders are given a second chance:

The first is Kuntrell Jackson, whose case played a pivotal role in changing juvenile sentencing laws nationwide. Kuntrell was only 14 years old when he was sentenced to life without parole for his involvement in a robbery that ended in tragedy. He did not pull the trigger, yet his presence at the scene led to his conviction. After spending over 16 years in prison, his case, Jackson v. Hobbs, reached the U.S. Supreme Court, where it was decided that mandatory life-without-parole sentences for juveniles were unconstitutional. Kuntrell was eventually released in 2017 and has since become a motivational speaker, author, and advocate for criminal justice reform. He now works tirelessly to help at-risk youth avoid making the same mistakes he did, showing that rehabilitation and change are possible​ (KuntrellOJackson)​ (Equal Justice Initiative)​ (Presbyterian Mission).

Another compelling story is that of Kaleem Nazeem, who was sentenced to life in prison without parole at the age of 17. After serving nearly 29 years, he was released in 2018 following the Supreme Court's ruling on juvenile life sentences. Since his release, Kaleem has become an advocate for criminal justice reform, speaking to youth about the dangers of criminal behavior and using his story to inspire others​ (CFSY)​ (KARK).

Call to Action

We call on lawmakers to recognize the ongoing development of young adults and the impact of trauma on their behavior. By extending Act 539 to include those who committed crimes before the age of 21, we can offer a fairer, more compassionate approach that acknowledges the potential for rehabilitation and positive contributions to society.

Importantly, this extension should apply retroactively to current prisoners who were sentenced to life without parole for crimes committed under the age of 21. This would not be a "Get out of Jail Free" card. Offenders would still be required to serve significant portions of their sentences, with eligibility for parole based on the severity of their crimes, potentially after 20, 30, or more years. Parole eligibility would be contingent on demonstrated rehabilitation and readiness for reintegration into society.

Sign this petition to support the extension of Act 539 and help provide young offenders with the opportunity for a second chance. By doing so, we can ensure that our justice system is just and recognizes the potential for growth and change in young people.