Some experts say charging youth – whose brains have not developed to understand the implications of their actions – as adults can set kids up to fail for the rest of their lives. And while some Indiana lawmakers have worked toward changing policy to send fewer children to adult court, proposed legislation hasn’t gained traction.

California is trying to do just that, though police and advocates for ex-offenders are at odds over whether it will work. The debate is playing out as President Obama is calling for nationwide change.