CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 17-year-old arrested in a Charlotte homicide last week was the first juvenile to be charged by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police under the updated "Raise the Age" legislation.
The teen was arrested last week in connection with the killing of a man at a south Charlotte apartment complex on Dec. 9. A second suspect is also facing numerous charges, including murder, in the case.
The teen, charged with murder in a south Charlotte homicide, is the first suspect charged by CMPD since an amendment allowing law enforcement to charge 16- and 17-year-old suspects as adults took effect on Dec. 1. The new law allows police departments to automatically charge suspects who commit certain felonies as adults.
Gov. Roy Cooper vetoed the bill in June, but the General Assembly voted to override his veto, pushing the bill into law. CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings was critical of Cooper's veto, saying the legislation was a "crucial step" in protecting juveniles.
"I firmly believe that with continued effort and public dialogue, we can find a resolution that addresses the Governor's concerns while still upholding the core principles outlined in the legislation," Jennings said in a statement from CMPD. "While this is an ongoing challenge, we will continue our work together to create a safer environment for everyone."
Anyone with information about this case or any other incident is asked to call Charlotte Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Witnesses can also call 704-432-TIPS to speak directly with homicide detectives.