Apr 01 2010
California Children Routinely Sentenced to Life in Prison: The Case of Tedi Snyder
California’s Juvenile Justice system has come under scrutiny for years for its draconian policies targeting incarcerated youth. Formerly known as the California Youth Authority, the California Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) underwent a reorganization five years ago as a result of a court agreement with the state legislature over mistreatment in its youth prisons. But severe problems persist both in the prisons, and the courts that try young people. This morning, the Youth Justice Coalition along with family members of a 19 year old inmate are gathering at the Downtown LA Criminal Court hoping for an announcement of a new trial. Four years ago, at the age of 15, an African American youth named Tedi Snyder was arrested and charged with two attempts of murder. His family claims that the initial trial was flawed as a result of an incompetent defense attorney. Now, on the verge of turning 20, Tedi Snyder faces a possible sentence of 80 years to life. The Youth Justice Coalition is calling for justice for Tedi Snyder saying that his case “illustrates much of what is unfair about California’s juvenile and criminal” justice system.
GUESTS: Kim McGill, an organizer with Youth Justice Coalition
For more information, visit www.youth4justice.org or email freelanow@yahoo.com.
2 Responses to “California Children Routinely Sentenced to Life in Prison: The Case of Tedi Snyder”
I live in Orange County, but how can I help? I am a school guidance counselor and was a H.S. Continuation Principal for many years. Please respond.
Many judges do not see the whole picture, nor do they want to. They are very single-minded and sometimes sit on the bench with blinders on. I am aware of several cases like this.