Trying youths as adults
Evidence-rated crime-reduction intervention (EMMIE).
Effect on crime
mixed evidence
Evidence quality
strong
Cost
moderate
What the evidence says
The intervention involves transferring young offenders from youth courts to adult criminal courts, aimed at deterring crime through harsher penalties. Evidence indicates mixed findings, with some studies showing either increases or decreases in reoffending rates, but overall it has not achieved a statistically significant impact on crime. The systematic reviews utilized highlight significant factors influencing the effectiveness of transfers, particularly concerning the type of crime and methods of transfer used.
How it works
The mechanism relies on specific deterrence, suggesting harsher penalties in adult courts may deter reoffending, and incapacitation, which keeps offenders from reoffending while in custody. However, evidence supporting these mechanisms is limited.
Implementation
Successful implementation necessitates that young offenders be deemed unsuitable for rehabilitation in the youth system. Various methods for transferring youths include judicial waivers and prosecutorial discretion.
Source: College of Policing Crime Reduction Toolkit (What Works Centre for Crime Reduction). Summarised 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the College of Policing.