We call upon lawmakers, policymakers, and justice advocates to abolish the death penalty for individuals under the age of 25. Research and evidence from psychology, neuroscience, and sociology have shown that young adults are still undergoing significant cognitive and emotional development, making them less culpable for their actions. The current application of the death penalty ignores these realities, perpetuates racial disparities, and violates evolving standards of justice and human rights.

Developmental Science Proves Reduced Culpability Numerous studies, including those cited by the American Psychological Association, confirm that the brain continues to develop into the mid-twenties. Critical areas such as the prefrontal cortex, responsible for impulse control and decision-making, are not fully matured until around age 25. Young adults are more prone to impulsive decisions, peer influence, and risky behaviors due to their developmental stage. Ignoring this evidence when sentencing individuals to death is both unscientific and unjust.

In the landmark Roper v. Simmons decision, the U.S. Supreme Court prohibited the execution of individuals under 18, citing their diminished capacity for self-regulation. Yet, ongoing research shows that individuals between 18 and 24 share many of the same developmental limitations. It is time to extend this protection to young adults.

The Impact of Peer Influence Young adults are especially vulnerable to peer pressure and social influences. Criminal acts committed by individuals in this age group are often a result of group dynamics rather than independent, calculated decisions. Studies have shown that peer associations are one of the strongest predictors of delinquent behavior among young adults. To hold them fully accountable without considering these influences is an injustice.

Racial Disparities in the Death Penalty The racial bias inherent in the U.S. criminal justice system disproportionately affects young adults of color, making them more likely to face harsher sentences, including the death penalty. Black and Hispanic young men are overrepresented on death row, reflecting systemic inequities. Abolishing the death penalty for those under 25 would be a significant step toward addressing these disparities and moving toward a fairer system.

Global Perspectives on Justice Internationally, the U.S. lags behind in aligning its policies with human rights standards. Most developed nations have abolished the death penalty, citing its inherent inhumanity and lack of effectiveness as a deterrent. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child prohibits the execution of individuals under 18, and many countries recognize the need for leniency toward young adults due to their ongoing development.

Our Call to Action We urge policymakers to:

Raise the minimum age for capital punishment to 25.
Address racial inequities in the criminal justice system.
Work toward the ultimate abolition of the death penalty.
By signing this petition, you stand for a justice system that reflects the latest scientific evidence, promotes fairness, and values human rights. Let us ensure that no individual is executed for a crime committed during a period of developmental immaturity. Together, we can build a more equitable and humane society.

Sign and Share Please sign this petition to support the abolition of the death penalty for individuals under 25. Your voice can make a difference in creating a justice system that truly upholds the values of fairness, equity, and humanity.

Thank you for your support!

Aaron Keep

Please get involved and contact your local congressman, you you don't know who your representative is you can find out here https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/?source=adwords&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAjeW6BhBAEiwAdKltMseG5LLmC0ywntjXN5JoBZLXXfmOAqwrTrpktkFyltepm_hy8H_KVhoCX8wQAvD_BwE

If you live in 3rd district of Colorado like I do, you can contact:
Representative Lauren Boebert

503 N. Main
Suite 426
Pueblo, CO 81003

Phone: (719) 696-6970 

Boebert.Scheduling@mail.house.gov