There's one part that's confusing.
As an example, there's a case in the news about two 16-year-olds both charged with first-degree murder of one of their schoolteachers. With the facts available so far, it was a well-planned, premediated murder. They're set to be tried in adult court, and deemed responsible for their actions.
However, if instead of killing the woman they'd had consensual sex with her, they'd be presented as 'victims.' And, instead of referring to them throughout the news articles as 'teens' and 'students,' they'd be called 'children.'
So why is it in criminal cases when the individuals are minors they're considered responsible for their actions, but not considered responsible when they're involved in sexual activity?