A gentle slap on the wrist will not teach them a lesson or act as a deterrent from criminal activities. However, if they face the same consequences adults do, their behaviour will be better shaped moving forward.
The age of criminal responsibility should not be taken lightly and it is important to understand that juveniles are able to comprehend right from wrong. They have the capability to distinguish between the two even if they decide to commit a crime regardless. With this understanding, it is only fair and just that they are held responsible for their actions in the same way an adult would be.
This will reinforce the fact that any unlawful behaviour will result in adverse consequences regardless of age. It is also important for them to realize that there are no shining stars in society who can get away with breaking laws without repercussions.
Juveniles need to know that when it comes down to criminal activities there won’t be any special treatment because of their age; instead, they should expect equal repercussions just like those applied to adults when dealing with criminal offences. Doing so will send out a strong message about how serious these behaviours are and how seriously society takes them.
This approach would ensure deterrence from criminal activity in the future as well as greater respect for law and order among juveniles.