If a juvenile commits a heinous crime ... execution is the answer. Life sentences are unnecessary.

In my opinion, prison sentences are way too long. Prison sentences should be long enough to get the attention of the criminal, but not so long that the person loses the ability to function in society or to perform useful work. In the case of property crimes, restitution is better than prison unless the miscreant refuses to pay restitution, or if the person continues to commit such crimes. In that case only should a person have to work out his restitution in prison for however long it takes. If a person is so depraved that less than five years of prison does not portend the safety of others in society, execution seems more humane than a long wasted life in prison. Age should not be a factor.

The crimes were serious Yes. The punishments seem excessive however given the nature of the crimes and the age of the criminals.

Anyone who would rape an old woman is probably mentally unstable. He shouldn't be let out until he is deemed safe to be let out.