New law affecting juvenile’s caught with guns to begin July 1

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Under a new law to take effect Wednesday, July 1, teenagers who commit crimes with guns will now automatically be charged as adults.

Lawmakers in Jackson have sent a clear message concerning juvenile gun crimes, by passing a law dictating the teens caught with guns will be charged as adults and bypass youth court to head straight to circuit court.

State Senator Joey Fillingane represents District 41 which includes Covington, Forrest, Jefferson Davis, Lamar and Smith Counties. Filligane wrote the bill and is a member of the National Rifle Association.

“We’re trying to send a very loud message. Before you commit this act, before you go down this road, you need to know the consequences of that is very severe,” Fillingane said in reports.

Anyone 18 years and younger caught committing a crime with a gun, whether or not the gun is concealed, will be held to the same accountability as an adult facing more severe consequences. The law also addresses adults who provide the guns to the teens.

Any caught either giving or selling a gun to a teenager could face up to 20 years in prison. If the gun is used in a crime the charge goes to 30 years. If the gun is used in a homicide the adult could face up to 40 years incarcerated.

Lawmakers opposing the bill claimed it should be left to the youth court to decide if the teen should be charged as an adult; however, the bill passed making the adult charge automatic.

Over the past year there has been a rash of gun crimes concerning teenagers. Under the new law, the teens will not have a chance to have the charges downgraded in juvenile court. Several incidents locally include shooting into a crowd.

Under the law, teens could face up to 15 years in prison if they shoot into a crowd of two or more people. The sentencing increases up to 20 years, if they shoot into a crowd at a church, school or courthouse. If the shooter is a gang member the penalty increases to a maximum of 30 years.

Port Gibson Police Commissioner Carlton Phillips made a post to social media concerning the new law. Phillips also serves as an investigator and patrol officer with the Vicksburg Police Department.

“As parents and guardians, we must educate our children about the dangers and consequences of gun violence. We must teach them that carrying or using a firearm to commit violence is not the answer to any problem,” said Phillips. “The conversations we have with our children today can determine the path they take tomorrow. Teach them early. Teach them respect, responsibility, and accountability. Help them understand that one poor decision involving a firearm can change their lives forever.”

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