Capital murder, in adult cases, can bring the death penalty.
However, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that juvenile defendants can't be executed if they were under 18 at the time of their crimes.
Hill also explained that juveniles can't be certified to be tried as adults until they reach age 14.
The maximum capital murder penalty for children is 40 years incarceration with the Texas Youth Commission -- the state’s juvenile corrections agency.
But, Hill added, the TYC can recommend parole for someone, if they respond well to "rehabilitative efforts."
"Minimum length of stay is three years on murder," Hill said, "but on capital murder, the minimum length of stay is 10 years.
"After age 19, TYC would lose the jurisdiction and the person would go into the adult system."
At that point, they could enter a regular prison or be released on parole, but as an adult, Hill said.
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http://www.star-telegram.com/2010/09/03/2443501/garland-man-dies-two-weeks-after.html#ixzz0yVJHCIC2