“Justice Vs. Age”: Josh Kolsrud Analyzes Derek Rosa’s Guilty Plea And Sentence

An Adult Crime Committed by a Child

In his recent appearance on Court TV, Phoenix Defense attorney Josh Kolsrud described the Derek Rosa case as one of the most challenging situations the justice system can face, stressing that age alone cannot outweigh the severity of the crime. He noted that stabbing one’s mother 40 times while she slept is an “adult act” that demands real accountability. In Kolsrud’s view, society cannot simply excuse conduct of this magnitude, even when the defendant is only 13 years old at the time of the offense.

Why the Plea and Sentence Were Justified

Kolsrud explained that the guilty plea and resulting sentence likely would not have been offered without the approval of the victim’s family. He emphasized that prosecutors must consider what justice looks like in extreme cases, balancing punishment with deterrence. According to Kolsrud, both general deterrence—sending a message to others—and specific deterrence—preventing Rosa from reoffending—were central to the court’s decision, making the 25-year prison sentence a just outcome under the circumstances.

Life After Prison and the Risk to Society

Addressing concerns about Rosa’s eventual release, Kolsrud pointed out that Florida law permits life sentences even for defendants as young as 13 convicted of first-degree murder. By comparison, he said Rosa was fortunate to avoid that outcome. Kolsrud noted that any release will be followed by 20 years of probation, keeping Rosa under close state supervision well into adulthood. Ultimately, he said rehabilitation is possible but entirely up to Rosa, and society will judge whether he earns the second chance he has been given.

Key Takeaways from Josh Kolsrud

• The crime was an “adult act,” requiring serious punishment despite the defendant’s age. 
• Victim family input likely influenced the decision to offer a plea deal. 
• The sentence reflects both general and specific deterrence goals. 
• Florida law allowed for a life sentence, making this a lesser alternative. 
• Any release will include decades of probation and strict oversight.