CONTENTS

I INTRODUCTION

II RESISTANCE TO INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITMENTS

III CHILDREN PROSECUTED IN THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM
1.Background
2.Excessive use of incarceration
3.Cruel use of force and restraints
4.Solitary confinement
5.Inadequate services for children with mental health problems

IV CHILDREN PROSECUTED IN THE GENERAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
1.Background
2.Lack of separation from adults
3.Imposition of harsh, inflexible sentences
4.Failure to specify a minimum age of criminal responsibility
5.Length of time before trial
6.Lack of access to services

V THE DEATH PENALTY

VI DISCRIMINATION
1.Gender
2.Race

VII REMEDIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF RIGHTS

VIII SUMMARY OF AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL’S RECOMMENDATIONS TO U.S. AUTHORITIES