In re P.G.

OPINION OF THE COURT

Stephen J. Bogacz, J.

Courts have long recognized the existence of a less-than-level playing field when police question youthful suspects. As far back as 64 years ago, the United States Supreme Court acknowledged the need for courts to utilize “special care in scrutinizing the record” concerning police interrogation of an accused 15-year-old male and his ensuing confession. (Haley v Ohio, 332 US 596, 599 [1948].) The Court further observed that “[a]ge 15 is a tender and difficult age .... He cannot be judged by the more exacting standards of maturity. That which would leave…