DA Seeks Adult Trial for Teen in Fatal Milpitas High Stabbing
Source: mercurynews.com
TL;DR
- DA seeks to charge a 17-year-old boy as an adult for fatally stabbing another teen near Milpitas High School.
- The attack killed Jarred Jon Banting Cavan, 17, and injured a 16-year-old girl on March 31.
- A second 16-year-old suspect was arrested Thursday in Ontario, California.
- Transfer to adult court could mean state prison time, with a hearing set for May 28.
The story at a glance
Prosecutors want to try a teen suspect as an adult in a cold-blooded fatal stabbing near Milpitas High School. This update comes as police reveal a second arrest and the community mourns the victim.
Key moments & milestones
- March 31: Stabbing reported at 3:50 p.m. on 200 block of Vienna Drive, 100 yards from school fields; Jarred Jon Banting Cavan, 17, fatally injured.
- Tuesday: Incident occurs; Cavan dies at hospital, 16-year-old girl treated and released.
- April 2: Memorial forms near site with candles, flowers, and "We ♥ You Jarred" chalk message.
- Thursday: Second 16-year-old boy arrested in Ontario, Southern California.
- Friday: Primary suspect's detention hearing; DA files motion to transfer to adult court.
- May 28: Next court hearing for probation report and transfer ruling.
Signature highlights
- Primary 17-year-old suspect, a Milpitas Unified student, charged in juvenile court with murder, assault with deadly weapon, and knife use; held in Juvenile Hall.
- Attack captured partly on bystander video; all involved - suspect and two victims - were district students.
- School principal offers counselors, limits info to respect family and investigation.
- Defense argues juvenile court suffices, citing underdeveloped teen brains under 25.
Key quotes
- "My condolences to the victim’s family; it’s tragic when a 17 year-old boy gets murdered," said Alex Adams, supervising deputy DA. "We don’t always file transfers, but based on factors including how cold-blooded this knifing was, DA (Jeff) Rosen felt it was appropriate for adult sanctions."
- "All of the modern studies demonstrate that people under 25 have underdeveloped minds. They are different from adults," said Brian Matthews, head of county Alternate Defender’s Office.
Why it matters
This push for adult prosecution highlights tensions between youth brain science and demands for tough penalties in violent teen crimes, potentially setting precedent in Santa Clara County. The community grapples with grief near a school, fueling safety concerns. Watch the May 28 hearing for transfer decision, which could reshape the suspect's fate.