Young Shooters Part 1: 12 Year Old Detroit Boy Could Get Life in Prison

Typically a 12 year old would be at home in the bed, but not this 12 year old. The average 12 year old child is looking forward to summer vacation from school, looking forward to hanging out with friends and doing what children do. But instead, Demarco Harris has been charged with felony murder and armed robbery in the Aug. 1 slaying of Trisha Babcock.

Trisha Babcock, a 24-year-old woman from Davison was shot shortly after midnight as she sat in a car with a man at West Outer Drive and Minock. Wayne County prosecutors charged Harris on Saturday in juvenile court under a state law that gives the judge discretion to impose an adult sentence if the child is convicted.

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy called the crime “very scary. . . . Serious,” but said she is not ruling out a plea that would keep the 6-foot-2 youth in juvenile custody. {snip}

{snip}

The new law just implemented in the City of Eastpointe, Michigan will have other cities considering whether or not it’s not a bad idea. Eastpointe, Michigan implemented the Parent Responsibility law, if a child commits a crime, the city will charge the parents.

{snip}

Obviously there is a problem, because why was Harris on the streets at midnight to begin with? Harris was not alone, a second juvenile suspect is in custody on other charges, police said, but has not been charged in the shooting. Detroit Police Chief Warren Evans said Wednesday, “We are confident that the 12-year-old was the shooter.”

{snip}

[Editor’s Note: Condolences for Trisha Babcock can be offered here.]