He claims that the judge considered trying Cameron as a minor. I don't see how. But the author of this essay might be confusing Cameron with Cameron's "racing partner," John Barrineau, who was, in fact, 17 at the time, so it is conceivable that Barrineau could have been tried as a juvenile.

Although the judge refused. Barrineau made the smart move, and took a plea deal. He got six years plus 15 years on probation, during which time he will have to perform community service, and it's been proposed that he be used to visit high schools to lecture the students on the dangers of drag racing.

Nice idea.

Cameron's lawyer argued that Cameron should get the same. The judge didn't go into a whole lot of detail for the reasons why for departure, but he did mention the age difference. Also, the fact that Barrineau is not the one who hit them. He changed lanes and managed to avoid hitting them.