Judge Denies Release for Black Teen Sent to Jail Over Failure to Do Online Homework

A judge is refusing to grant an early release for a 15-year-old black teen who was sent to juvenile detention for allegedly failing to complete her online homework.

15-year-old Grace has been in jail since May, and her next court date isn’t until September.

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“She is a threat of harm under our current circumstances without the mental health treatment she needs, and interventions so she can get a handle on herself,” said Judge Mary Ellen Brennan, perMichigan Radio, “There is not a question in my mind, if I were to grant the request to release you home today, I would be making a mistake, andI would be doing you a disservice.”

Grace told the judge, “My mom wanted to get help anywhere else but the judicial system, and I am not doing well emotionally. To be honest, I’ve learned more about my mother’s and my relationship in the last two months than I have in my entire life. But I know if I were to go home, I would walk out with a different perspective on life, and I know I would also walk out with newfound patience.”

Grace was initially on probation for fighting, but her homework is what landed her in jail as it was considered a violation. Grace has ADHD and found it difficult to keep up with online learning during COVID-19.