Are You Going to Hell If You Burglarize a Church? Utah Church Vandalism Case Cracked.

Dec
05
Simms, on the topic of  Juvenile Defense Misc
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A case of vandalism at a Magna, Utah, church has been solved, as far as law enforcement is concerned; however, you are gonna need a great attorney in front of the Judge and on Judgment Day.

Busy Little Bees

The vandalism occurred twice within a 48 hour time period back in August. Numerous items were broken, destroyed or stolen during those vandalism episodes, but police were initially stumped as to who the culprits were.

At some point, police found a cell phone in the church and were able to trace it. They talked to the Utah teen who owned it and he confessed to being part of the trio who broke into the church. Police have since discovered the identities of the other two teens and charges have been filed against at least one of the juveniles, including felonies such as burglary, theft and destruction of property.

Vandalism Can Include a Host of Crimes

Often, vandalism includes crimes such as graffiti and criminal trespass. Criminal trespass can be charged if a person enters property unlawfully and commits crimes that don’t amount to theft and/or burglary. This situation included taking property off the premises, as well as destruction of property so the charges are (presumably) cited accordingly.

Since minors’ cases are normally handled in juvenile court, that court doesn’t look at the charges the same as the adult court does. Juveniles are usually charged with offenses and hopefully can be rehabilitated through the juvenile court processes.

Your Child’s Rights Matter

Because kids’ rights are as important as adults’ rights, it’s just as vital that a juvenile has legal representation, too. Utah juveniles who have been charged with any offense need and deserve the help of a top Utah juvenile defense attorney.

If your child is in a legal conundrum, talk to a Utah juvenile defense attorney today. Help your son or daughter get back on the right track.

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Deaths of Utah Teens Ruled a Murder-Suicide

Nov
29
Simms, on the topic of  Violent Acts
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A South Jordan community was struck with tragedy a couple of weeks ago when two Utah teens were found dead in the basement of a home.

Photo: Rodrigo Gomez Sanz

What Happened?

The boys’ deaths, a 12-year-old and 15-year-old, were recently determined to be the result of a murder-suicide; the 15-year-old was apparently responsible for both the younger teen’s and his own death. Authorities have yet to state a reason, if one is known, for the motive(s) behind the tragic deaths—although they have noted that they aren’t sure if the murder was accidental or intentional.

Stolen Guns Found in Home

The gun used in the shootings had been reportedly listed as stolen that same day, along with two other guns found in the home. Three other Utah teens were in the home’s basement at the time of the shootings; very little information about them has been released and no charges have been filed at this point.

Be Involved with your Kids

Even though these boys’ deaths occurred before the holiday season, it’s a good time to note that there are a lot of Utah teens who may feel more emotionally or financially desperate at this time of year. Parents cannot be held responsible for a lot of things their teenagers decide to do, but it’s helpful if adults try to keep tabs on their kids’ activities.

Talk to a Utah Juvenile Defense Attorney

Kids, like adults, can get into trouble at the craziest times. If your child has run across the law in a negative way, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Utah juvenile defense attorney. Having an attorney on your child’s side may be the best gift you can give to him or her. Make that important phone call today.

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Teen Receives Life Sentence for Murder

Nov
21
Simms, on the topic of  Violent Acts
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A teen who was found guilty of murder recently received a life sentence from a Colorado judge.

The Life Sentence

The now 18-year-old was a juvenile at the time of the crime, but that didn’t stop the judge from handing down the stiffest penalty available to him. Because the teen was a juvenile when the murder occurred, he normally would have been eligible for parole after 40 years. In this situation, however, the judge added 86 years for other crimes the teen was convicted of. Those additional sentences will keep him in prison for the rest of his life.

Was the Life Sentence Doled Out Appropriately?

The teen’s defense attorneys tried to convince the judge that state law required him to allow the young man to be eligible for parole after the mandatory years had been served, but the judge didn’t concede their argument.

Even though Colorado has the death penalty, a person convicted of committing this type of crime when he was a juvenile at the time cannot be sentenced to death. The defense team in this situation will undoubtedly appeal the judge’s decision.

Just because a judge comes to a certain resolution, doesn’t always mean it’s the right choice. That’s why you want to make sure your child is represented by a top Utah juvenile defense attorney regardless of the offense or crime he’s been charged with.

Get Your Child the Expert Legal Help He Needs

The right attorney can help make sure that your child is treated fairly and that his case is handled appropriately. If your child has been charged with any offense, it’s in his best interest to talk to a Utah juvenile defense attorney right away. Make that important call today.

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Utah Teens, Arson and Restitution

Nov
14
Simms, on the topic of  Juvenile Defense Misc, School
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Two Utah teens have been arrested as suspects in the weekend arson of the Davis High School football field and may end up with a large restitution bill.

Photo: Matthew Venn

The 16-year-olds were booked into the local juvenile detention facility while they’re being investigated for committing arson and criminal trespass. They allegedly burned an approximately 48 square foot patch of the field; damages are estimated to be at least $10,000.

What Should We Do Tonight?

The suspects attend another high school, but supposedly started the fire for fun. Considering the amount of damages, the school district may look for restitution.

When a person is found guilty of committing a crime that results in financial damages, Utah law states that a court shall order the individual to make restitution to the victims. In determining restitution, the court looks at complete restitution and court-ordered restitution.

What is Restitution?

Complete restitution covers the money necessary to compensate a victim for all losses. Court-ordered restitution means the restitution the person must pay as part of his sentence at the time of sentencing or within one year after sentencing.

Parents Can be Financially Liable

When a juvenile commits an offense where there is property damage, the juvenile’s parent or legal guardian is liable for property damages not to exceed $2000 under the following conditions:

• The minor intentionally damages, defaces, destroys or takes someone else’s property
• The minor recklessly or willfully propels or shoots a missile or other object at one of several objects
• The minor intentionally and unlawfully tampers with the property of another endangering human life or involving public utility services

There are circumstances under which a parent may not be legally responsible for a child’s actions; if you have questions about this, it’s best to consult with a Utah juvenile defense attorney.

If your child is involved in any juvenile legal problems, it’s a good idea to talk to a Utah juvenile defense attorney as soon as possible. Don’t assume that the issue will resolve itself or go away. Get your child the legal help he or she needs today.

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Utah Teen Arrested After Supposed Gang Shooting

Nov
07
Simms, on the topic of  Violent Acts
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West Valley City police have arrested a Utah teen they believe was involved in a suspected gang shooting last week.

Photo: TC Crouch

What Happened?

Two groups of rival gang members got into a verbal tussle in the early hours of last Friday morning and were allegedly leaving the area when one teen, the suspect arrested, is believed to have fired several rounds at the other group. Police stated that no one reported to any local healthcare facility for treatment for a gunshot wound.

The Utah teen suspected of doing the shooting was arrested and the other occupants in the same vehicle were released to their parents.

What is a Criminal Street Gang?

A criminal street gang is described as an organization, association in fact, or group of three or more people that has:

• As one of its primary activities the commission of one or more gang crimes
• As a group, an identifying name or identifying sign or symbol, or both
• Members who engage in, or have engaged in, a pattern of criminal gang activity

There are enhanced penalties for members of criminal street gangs who commit certain offenses and who are found to have committed the offense

• With two or more people
• For the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with the gang or
• To gain recognition, membership, acceptance or increased status with the gang

Talk to an Attorney

Most Utah teens who commit an offense are handled within the jurisdiction of a Utah juvenile court. Depending on the circumstances of the offense, a teen’s case may be transferred to adult court. In order to help make sure that your child’s case is handled in the best way possible, you should talk to a Utah juvenile defense attorney before going into court.

The right attorney can help see that your child is treated fairly and respectfully. Do what’s best for your son or daughter by contacting a Utah juvenile defense attorney today.

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Youth Court for Utah Juveniles

Nov
01
Simms, on the topic of  Juvenile Court
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When Utah kids get into trouble with the law, some may find themselves in a state youth court instead of the traditional juvenile court setting.

Photo: Fort George Meade Public Affairs Office

What is Youth Court?

Youth court is an alternative to the typical juvenile court. Youth court is organized with teens as the judges, jury, lawyers, bailiffs and clerks—under the supervision of an adult. Any person may make a referral for a juvenile to youth court for minor offenses. Potential referrals are always screened by an adult coordinator.

What Type of Authority does a Youth Court Have?

Youth courts have authority over kids:

• Referred for a minor offense or offenses
• Who, with a parent, voluntarily and in writing request youth court involvement
• Who admit having committed the referred offense
• Who (along with a parent) waive privilege against self-incrimination and right to a speedy trial and
• Who, along with a parent, agree to follow the youth court disposition of the case

Youth courts may decline to accept a youth in their court for any reason and kids or their parents may decide to quit the youth court process at any time. If either occurs, the case will be transferred back to a juvenile court.

Who Will Know What Happens in Youth Court?

The happenings in youth court are only allowed to be shared with the referring agency, juvenile court and the victim.

Talk to a Utah Juvenile Defense Attorney

Regardless of the offense a child is charged with, it’s always in his best interest to talk to a Utah juvenile defense attorney. Having an attorney on your son’s or daughter’s side may make a world of difference in his or her case. Make the right choice and call an attorney today.

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Utah Teen Under Investigation for Attempted Murder

Oct
25
Simms, on the topic of  Violent Acts
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A 17-year-old Utah teen is being investigated for his alleged role in an attempted murder earlier this week.

Photo: Iain Watson

Who Else Was Involved?

Police know the young man was one of five occupants in a car that was involved in a drive-by shooting in the Kearns area. Unfortunately for the Utah teen, authorities believe that he was the one who fired several shots towards a Kearns home—in the direction of one resident who was standing outside the home.

All five of the car’s occupants are thought to have gang connections. The other four people in the vehicle, including another teen, have all been arrested pending investigation into their roles in the shooting.

Elements of Attempting to Commit a Crime

A person may be guilty of an attempt to commit a crime if he:

• Does certain things that would legally constitute a substantial step towards the commission of the crime
• Intends to commit the crime or
• Acts in such a way that he knows his action is likely to produce a certain result

Attempted murder (in adult court) is frequently charged as a first degree felony. The punishment for committing attempted murder can differ from one case to the next, depending on the circumstances.

People of all ages do become involved in gangs. There are laws in Utah that make persuading or even forcing a minor to become involved in a gang illegal. However, freedom of choice is still a positive benefit of living in this country.

Even Kids Need Legal Help

If your child has been arrested or is otherwise involved in a juvenile court case, don’t wait to talk to a Utah juvenile defense attorney. Kids’ rights aren’t supposed to be overlooked, but it’s better to make sure that your son or daughter has the best juvenile defense possible. Make that important call today.

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Use of Synthetic Drug Molly Seeing Upswing in Utah

Oct
17
Simms, on the topic of  Drugs
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Molly, a new name for the old-time drug ecstasy, is making headlines around the country after recent overdose deaths have been reported.

Photo: Nightlife of Revelry

What’s New About Ecstasy?

Part of the resurging interest in the drug may be owed to music artists who refer to Molly in their songs. Some sing about finding Molly while others make no bones about using the drug. Authorities on the subject say that one place the drug can be found in is clubs, but it is also making the rounds in high schools and middle schools—yes, even here in Utah.

Using Molly can cause severe dehydration, heart and kidney problems and increase the risk of seizures. A Schedule I controlled substance, the use and/or distribution of Molly is also illegal in Utah. The first conviction of possession of a small amount of a Schedule I substance is a class B misdemeanor. The second conviction penalty is a class A misdemeanor and three or more convictions are third degree felonies.

Most adults know that illegal drugs are bad for them, but those same people are certainly capable of choosing for themselves. Kids, on the other hand, tend to think that they’re infallible and the worst won’t happen to them. Unfortunately, where legal matters are concerned, people who get into trouble usually don’t go into a situation thinking that they’ll end up in a bind.

Parents Can Help Kids in Legal Trouble

That’s where a good Utah juvenile defense attorney comes in. An attorney isn’t going to judge a kid; he or she will be your child’s advocate and make sure that your son or daughter is treated fairly and respectfully.

If your child is in legal hot water, do the right thing and call a Utah juvenile defense attorney today.

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Suspected Cyberbullying at Utah High School

Oct
11
Simms, on the topic of  School
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There are reports of suspected cyberbullying at a Utah high school, this time using the social media network Instagram.

Photo: Geoffrey Fairchild

What’s Going on?

Some Timpview High School girls are the alleged targets of the cyberbullying this time. Before Instagram officials were notified and the list was taken down, it was reported that there were pictures of several female students and offensive comments made about the girls. Local police as well as the school district are making investigations into the alleged cyberbullying.

Utah law prohibits bullying, cyberbullying, harassment, hazing, sexual battery and sexual exposure in the following school-related situations:

• on school property
• at a school related or sponsored event
• on a school bus
• at a school bus stop
• while a school employee or student is traveling to or from the above locations

State law also notes that hazing and cyberbullying are prohibited at any time or any location. There is another law that requires a school to notify a parent if his child threatens to commit suicide or is otherwise involved in cyberbullying, harassment, etc.

An Attorney Can Help

Kids, like adults, are not immune from making mistakes. Youth that are bullied or are bullies both are in need of help; it’s an unfortunate situation for anyone involved that can bring about civil and/or criminal penalties.

If your child is facing legal difficulties due to cyberbullying or any other problem, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Utah juvenile defense attorney. Having the assistance of an attorney can help your child in multiple ways. Make the right move and call a Utah juvenile defense attorney today.

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Utah Teen Arrested After He Shoots Friend

Oct
04
Simms, on the topic of  Juvenile Defense Misc
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A Utah teen has been taken into custody following an accidental shooting that left his friend with a bullet in his stomach.

Photo: J BrewWhat Happened?

The teens were outside a West Valley City apartment complex when the shooting occurred. A 16-year-old allegedly tried to shoot a gun towards the ground but it didn’t discharge. At some point, the gun went off and a 15-year-old ended up worse for the wear. It’s believed that his injury isn’t life-threatening.

The 16-year-old Utah teen was taken into custody and booked into a local juvenile detention facility. He’s being investigated for possession of a firearm and discharge of a firearm.

Utah Kids and Guns

According to Utah law, a minor under the age of 18 may not be in possession of a dangerous weapon unless he:

• Has a parent or guardian’s permission to have the weapon or
• Is accompanied by a parent or guardian while he has the weapon

Failure to obey this law can result in a class B misdemeanor charge the first time. If it happens any other times, the charge will increase to a class A misdemeanor.

Discharging a gun is addressed all on its own. There are several places it’s illegal to shoot a gun, including:

• From any vehicle
• Around highways
• At road signs
• At railroad equipment or signs
• Without written permission of the owner of property within 600 feet of a house, dwelling or any other building

It’s a class B misdemeanor to disobey this law, and a person may have his driver’s license revoked, suspended or denied if he commits this crime.

This particular case sounds like it was likely just an accident, that no harm was actually intended. However, it’s still in the Utah teen’s best interest to have expert legal representation in any court hearing or other aspects of his case.

Talk to a Utah Juvenile Defense Attorney

If your child has been arrested for committing any offense, don’t wait to contact a Utah juvenile defense attorney. An experienced juvenile defense attorney may be able to help your Utah teen make sure that he’s treated fairly and respectfully. Make the right call today.

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