DETROIT — The state of Michigan has settled a decade-long lawsuit over so-called juvenile lifers.
The deal accelerates rehabilitation programs that could enhance their release from prison. It also puts deadlines on local prosecutors to schedule resentencing hearings and requires prosecutors to keep the attorney general informed.
The case involves prisoners who were convicted of murder and automatically sentenced to life without parole for killings when they were under 18.
Those no-parole punishments are no longer mandatory, and judges have much discretion to impose shorter sentences. Nearly 170 prisoners, known as juvenile lifers, are still waiting for new hearings.
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
