Paroled Teen Who Killed Bonanza Senior Now Facing Threats in His Neighborhood

When youthful violence intersects with a lenient criminal justice system, it undermines both public safety and individual responsibility. After roughly eight months in a juvenile detention center, the 16-year-old who shot Bonanza High senior Keanu Enright last fall has been granted parole, as confirmed by Keanu’s grieving father, Thomas Enright. But that release has sparked a new wave of concern in the neighborhood. Immediately afterward, the shooter and his twin began posting Instagram stories flaunting weapons and issuing chilling messages like “We beat murder charges, who’s next?”.

Enright reports that the brothers—who live two blocks away—have cruised past his home twice in the past week, parking outside for prolonged periods. Yet when he turned to the district attorney’s office for help, he says he was told to call the police because “there is nothing they can do,” with blame tossed between the Legislature, judges, and prosecutors. The result? A devastated father unable to grieve, and a community riddled with fear, while a violent teen walks free under supervision.

This case illustrates a systemic failure: when juveniles commit the ultimate crime and respond with threats, the system’s leniency sends a dangerous message. Nevada law does allow minors 16 or older accused of murder to be tried as adults—but only if prosecutors choose to fight and judges agree. In this instance, Assistant District Attorney Alexander Chen explained that prosecutors couldn’t prove the shooting was intentional and could not elevate the charge to adult court. Meanwhile, the shooter received a sentence at the “higher end” of juvenile guidelines—about eight months—before release.

Now, individuals and families are fearful. A parent of one of Keanu’s friends—speaking anonymously—said the shooter’s twin threatened her child directly, and they’ve been forced to relocate out of state. That sentiment is echoed by Thomas Enright: “It feels like I’m stuck and can’t grieve… Keanu’s life isn’t worth anything”.

We must ask: When justice systems prioritize rehabilitation over accountability at the expense of victims and communities, who wins? The conservative view demands stronger sentencing, personal accountability, and a legal framework that protects citizens and safeguards families like the Enrights. A society that allows violent offenders to resume freedom so quickly—and issue threats with impunity—is handing victory to fear.

Original source: Las Vegas Review‑Journal