Jermaine C. Jackson, Petitioner v. State of Florida, Respondent

Summary

The Florida Supreme Court affirmed the Fourth District Court of Appeal, holding that the Youthful Offender statute’s age‑at‑sentencing eligibility provision (section 958.04(l)(b)) is constitutional and does not violate either the Equal Protection Clause or substantive due process. The Court applied rational‑basis review, finding a legitimate state interest in preventing youthful offenders from associating with older inmates. The dissent argued the amendment infringes a fundamental right to trial and violates due process.