California Gang Member Shanice Dyer Charged Again After Double Murder Conviction

A young gang member from California, Shanice Dyer, has been charged with aiding and abetting in the murder of a 21-year-old man named Joshua Streeter, after having previously been convicted of two murders five years ago. At that time, Dyer was found guilty of killing Alfredo Carrera and José Flores Velázquez in Los Angeles, crimes attributed to her allegiance to the East Coast Crips gang, as the victims were within the gang's territory.

Initially charged as an adult for her prior murders by former district attorney Jackie Lacey, Dyer's case shifted when George Gascón took office. Gascón's administration opted to try her as a juvenile, leading to a relatively brief period of incarceration. A spokesperson for Gascón stated that, despite the gravity of Dyer's first offenses, a majority of the legal considerations indicated she should remain in the juvenile justice system.

The spokesperson elaborated on how Dyer's actions were influenced by adult men, and highlighted her minimal prior criminal history as well as the potential for rehabilitation. Gascón's policies, which have faced scrutiny and legal challenges for appearing too lenient, aim to prioritize rehabilitative approaches over punitive measures in cases involving juveniles. Despite some controversy surrounding his administration, an established committee under Gascón has approved a limited number of transfers to adult court for juvenile offenders since its formation.