Inchoate offenses, which include attempt, conspiracy, and solicitation, are acts taken toward completing a crime but that ultimately fall short of the completed offense. The critical question surrounding minors and these crimes involves their capacity for criminal intent and the application of juvenile justice systems. When these preliminary acts occur online, jurisdictional issues and the complexities of proving intent are amplified. For example, a minor who solicits another individual online to commit a crime may be charged with solicitation, even if the underlying crime never occurs.
The importance of understanding this issue lies in protecting both potential victims and young individuals who may not fully comprehend the gravity of their online actions. Historically, juvenile justice systems have emphasized rehabilitation, but the accessibility and perceived anonymity of the internet have created new challenges. The benefits of clarity in this area include enabling law enforcement to appropriately address online criminal behavior while ensuring that minors are not unduly penalized for actions stemming from immaturity or a lack of understanding.
