Globe editorial: Memorial Middle School shooter case shows system needs change

Going by the current trial setting of December or January, it appears Memorial Middle School shooter Thomas Gregory White will have spent more than two years in jail awaiting trial.
That is not the way the system should work, an editorial in today's Joplin Globe says:

The allegations against White are such that we have always believed he should stand trial as an adult.

However, this case has opened our eyes to problems in the judicial system that need closer examination to determine if there is a better way to treat young teens being held in the adult system.

Trial dates for White have been set for December or January, following the outcome of a mental evaluation requested by the public defender’s office.

While a two-year wait for trial may not be uncommon for an adult facing serious felony charges, it’s too long for someone who commits a crime at the age of 13.

White is charged with two counts of assault, and single counts of unlawful use of a weapon, armed criminal action, and attempted escape.