Victorian magistrate extends violent teen's detention for safety

A magistrate in Victoria has decided to keep a violent 15-year-old boy in jail longer for the safety of the community. The boy has been involved in serious crimes, including robbing a stranger and attacking him with a weapon. This incident, caught on video, left the victim with significant injuries. In court, it was revealed that the boy had also committed other violent acts and had been driving a stolen car at very high speeds. After hearing about his past, the magistrate sentenced him to 150 days in jail, followed by a year of supervision once he is released. Since he has already served some time, he could be out in about three months. The boy’s lawyer argued that he felt sorry for his actions and has changed while in custody. She explained that the boy has several conditions, including autism, ADHD, and a language disorder. His mother has decided not to take him home after his release, so he will go into state care. Earlier in the day, the same magistrate also dealt with a 17-year-old who had been involved in stealing over 20 cars. The teenager expressed a desire to change his life, highlighting the increasing concern around youth crime in Victoria. The magistrate noted that these cases show the need for tougher measures to protect the community.