New Jersey Man Freed After Quarter-Century Behind Bars, Case Drive for Youth Justice Reform

A murder and four armed robberies in East Orange landed 17-year-old James Comer 75 years in prison. Comer, 42, was released from prison after 25 years. New Jersey’s youth legal system improved greatly.

Comer and two others killed a 35-year-old father of two in 2000. He received a 75-year sentence in 2004, which meant life in prison due of his youth. His lawyers initially argued that his hefty punishment didn’t account for his age, lack of engagement, or potential to reform.

Comer pledged to reform jails. He attended education, therapy, and changed his conduct to prepare for life outside incarceration. His defenders believed he deserved a lower sentence since he was improving.

The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled in 2022 that juveniles convicted of major offenses might request a term review after a specific time. They must be condemned with this in mind. This verdict offered many juvenile criminals a second opportunity after Comer. Was released after 25 and a half years with a new sentence.

Freedom is vital to him and the law. He challenged roughly 100 New Jersey youth sentences. Legal experts feel the decision allows minors who broke the law and would have received severe sentences without age consideration a fair opportunity.

Comer’s family, friends, and lawyers greeted him at jail. His mom was happy the long-awaited day had arrived. Comer promised to help prisoners. He described how jail life differed from outside. He said they were usually busy, didn’t get meals, and saw no visitors for years.

He founded Ministers to Society, a record label that strives to improve society. He wants to continue that job, expose jail, and advocate for youth after he gets out.

The ACLU of New Jersey and other justice system youth groups value it. It reveals that jailing different races, especially young persons of color, differs. The criminal justice system must evolve so people can improve, mature, and obtain a second opportunity.

Since Comer’s release, New Jersey’s attitudes on decarceration, long terms, and young criminals have altered. After his release, other kids who match the system’s qualifications will fit in better.

Comer seeks forgiveness, new friends, and good deeds. In his experience, committing a significant crime early on doesn’t usually lead to life in prison. It proves that people can improve and that age, maturity, and self-change matter in fairness.