Problem
Rico Terry is a 14-year-old, who broke into his neighbor's home and stole 15 PSP video games, two game controllers, an iPhone 12, and a charger. The home was secured by ADT, and the police caught him walking down the street. Law enforcement did not consider Rico's age when they took him into custody and questioned him. He confessed to the burglary. Because Rico had five previous adjudications, he could be transferred to criminal court. You are Rico's defense attorney. You think there is a good chance that a Supreme Court decision applies to the confession, and it could be thrown out. Based on what Rico told you, he is guilty, but you can him free on a technicality. This would help him avoid adjudication and disposition to a detention facility or him being transferred to criminal court.
The purpose of this case study is for you to provide more in-depth insight into the Supreme Court cases granting due process protections to juveniles.
A. Identify and discuss in detail which Supreme Court case(s) applies to this case scenario.
B. Identify and discuss in detail which amendment(s) of the Constitution is at issue. Discuss constitutional rights granted to adults versus juveniles.
C. Should you follow the law and use the Supreme Court case to have the case dismissed, if possible?
D. Does the admission of guilt have a bearing on the case? Why, or why not?