Featured on ABC’s Frontline, the controversial story of the “Elkhart 4” received a lot of media attention. Here, the film follows 16-year-old Blake Layman, one of the “Elkhart 4”, and his family over three years—from Blake’s first trial and conviction—to the final appeal at the Indiana Supreme Court on day 1275 when his conviction is overturned. Looking for cash, Blake Layman and four other teenagers burglarize a home in Elkhart, Indiana. The homeowner discovered the boys, shot and killed Danzelle, age 19, and also shot Blake in the leg. In Indiana, as in many other states, a charge of felony murder can be applied if a person dies while a felony is being committed. In this case, the prosecutor decides to go for felony murder, rather than burglary, stating that such a charge sends a strong message to would-be criminals that crime will not be tolerated. All four boys ages 16-18 are tried as adults, found guilty, and sentenced to 45-55 years in prison.
Since the film centers on Blake, the storyline provides information about the other young men and the burglarized homeowner. Only some facts are included from experts regarding felony murder—especially for juveniles. There are no comments from jurors. While some of the controversies are exposed via newscasts and social media—“the thugs got what they deserved” and “Blake at 16 made a bad choice”—the focus remains on Blake and the fact that he is basically a good kid who made a mistake and now faces overly punitive punishment. Blake’s mother Angie and his girlfriend Katherine are very loyal, refuse to give up, and garner support from the community with rallies to help fund the first trial.
During the trial, the prosecutor makes a strong case for conviction by stating that people should feel safe in their homes and burglary is a violent attack on families. After the verdict of guilty is reached and Blake is sentenced, he is transferred to Wabash Valley Correctional Facility—five hours from Elkhart. Believing the sentence to be unfair, Angie files an appeal to the Indiana Circuit Court of Appeals, a costly effort while Angie struggles to make ends meet and support her son. In his prison cell, Blake tries to avoid trouble and the surrounding negativity in prison. The teenager openly admits he was wrong and deserves punishment, but laments the lengthy sentence. The appeal fails and the court reduces the sentence to a minimum of 45 years. Blake struggles to stay positive, works on completing his GED, and proposes to Katherine. In the final appeal to the Indiana Supreme Court, the conviction is overturned. Since felony murder remains on the books in many states, young people watching this film may gain a better understanding of the severe consequences for criminal convictions. Strong Optional. Aud: J, H, C, P.