Family calls for juvenile delinquency laws after Alderwood Mall shooting

Family and friends of Jayda Woods-Johnson, a 13-year-old girl shot and killed at Alderwood Mall in Lynnwood, are calling for tougher penalties for armed juvenile offenders. They have launched an online petition urging lawmakers to pass “Jayda's Law,” which would make significant changes to the juvenile justice system.

The petition calls for juvenile repeat offenders to be tried as adults and face the same consequences as adult criminals, but first-time offenders should receive counseling and community service, especially victims of gun violence. It also proposes that parents of juvenile offenders be held liable for their children's crimes until they reach the age of 18.

Background: Teen suspect pleads not guilty in Lynnwood mall girl's murder; bail set at $2 million

The shooting occurred on July 3, 2024, when 16-year-old Samuel Gizaw allegedly shot Jayda at the Alderwood Shopping Mall. According to the petition, Gizaw was involved in a fight with another teenager and fired a single shot that struck Jayda. By all accounts, Jayda was an innocent bystander and had nothing to do with the fight.

On the way to the hospital she was pronounced dead.

Jayda's family describes her as a lively and loving girl who dreamed of becoming an actress, singer and dancer.

“She was the happiest and sweetest little girl on earth,” the petition states. “Her memory will be cherished and she will never be forgotten.”

The petition highlights the perceived leniency of the current juvenile justice system. Gizaw was initially released on bail the morning after the shooting before the gun was found. This has sparked outrage among Jayda's family and friends, who argue that such leniency allows juvenile offenders to escape serious consequences.

Related story: Police identify two girls who were with suspected Alderwood Mall shooter

As of July 18, 2024, there were 17 child murder victims in King County, many of whom were killed by other youth. This alarming statistic has fueled the push for “Jayda's Law,” which is intended to counter the rising trend of violent juvenile crime.

The bill includes several key measures, including a “no bail, no release” policy: Juveniles accused of serious crimes such as murder would remain in police custody for at least 24 to 72 hours while the details of the crime are investigated. They would not be released if they were required to wear an ankle bracelet that can be easily removed.

Another measure is adult trials for armed youths. Young people who are found in possession of a firearm are therefore tried as adults and face the same penalties as adult offenders. This includes being placed in youth custody until the age of 18, after which they may face a prison sentence.

Community service and counseling for first-time offenders were also important measures. Juveniles with no prior convictions found in illegal possession of a firearm would receive a minimum of six months of community service and supervised probation. They would also be required to attend counseling for 12 months.

Finally, parental responsibility was also enshrined in the law. Parents and guardians are held accountable for the actions of their children, so they can be held liable for any crimes committed by their minors.

The petition stresses the need for harsher penalties to deter future criminal behavior and to prevent and keep young people on the right path.

“Our children must be nurtured and encouraged to make a positive contribution to society,” the petition states. “However, when they stray and commit serious crimes, the justice system must step in and ensure appropriate justice.”

Jayda's family and supporters are determined to make Jayda's Law a reality because they believe it will create safer communities and reduce youth crime. They are also working to get the bill on the ballot for voters to vote on.

Bill Kaczaraba is a content editor at MyNorthwest. You can read his stories here. Follow Bill on X, formerly known as Twitter, Here and send him an email here.