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Calling the practice "cruel and unusual" punishment, the decision stated:
"Life in prison without the possibility of parole give no chance for fulfillment outside prison walls, no chance for reconciliation with society, no hope.""A young person who knows that he or she has no chance to leave prison before life's end has little incentive to become a responsible individual."
It also said America "adheres to a sentencing practice rejected the world over."
In December 2006, a UN resolution calling for JLWOP's abolition passed 185 to 1. America alone dissented. Few countries ever adopted it. At least 135 expressly rejected it in domestic laws, and 185 did so in General Assembly votes.
Israel, South Africa and Tanzania once sentenced children to life without parole. They later adopted legislation permitting juvenile parole. Although laws in some countries theoretically allow JLWOP, none use them. America's the world's only offender.
Although the Supreme Court Graham ruling broke new ground, it excluded 93% of juveniles convicted of homicide, including attempted and accomplice murder. Juvenile justice demands better. JLWOP abolishionists continue seeking state and federal legislative relief.
In 2009, Texas legislation eliminated it. However, it limits parole consideration to imprisonment after 40 years. Perhaps other states may follow and do better.
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