The aforementioned sentences are not guaranteed as the Crown could recommend a harsher adult sentence if the offence meets certain requirements Adult Sentence) When the "Act" was introduced the aspect that was publicized was ""to respond more firmly and effectively to the small number of the most serious, violent young offenders"" because the public was losing confidence in the youth justice system This was the reason for the harsh penalties for first- and second- degree murder, however, overall, the "Act" has decreased the number of youths within jails for non-violent offences substantially.