The document discusses reasons why courts allow juveniles to be sentenced as adults. It notes that 16 and 17-year-olds can be tried in adult court for serious crimes. However, sentencing juveniles as adults can lead to physical abuse and higher rates of recidivism. While public safety is a concern, juvenile programs may be more effective alternatives that also cost less than adult incarceration. The document considers possible punishments for juveniles other than adult sentencing.