City-Run Juvenile Detention Centers Overwhelmed: Report Reveals Challenging Conditions
City-run juvenile detention centers have become increasingly difficult to manage in the seven years since more teens transitioned into the system, according to a recent report by the city Department of Investigation (DOI).
Dramatic Increases
The population of detained youths at Horizon Juvenile Center in The Bronx and Crossroads Juvenile Center in Brooklyn has more than tripled and quadrupled, respectively, since the Raise the Age law took effect in 2017. The number of youths detained at Horizon has increased by a factor of 10, with many facing serious violent crimes, including murder charges.
Failing Youth Development Specialists
The DOI report found that child welfare agency’s point-based system to manage behavior has failed to effectively deter violence and contraband smuggling. The crisis intervention system has also been insufficient in maintaining order, with many staff members citing a lack of physical safety, inadequate training, and overwhelming workload.
Staff Under-Training and Over-Worked
Staff members are pulling 16-hour shifts, and many have reported feeling unprepared to manage the new demographics of the youth population. The DOI report highlights incidents of violence, including a youth slashing an employee, and assaults between residents.
Improvements Put Concerns in Context
A separate federal monitor report, released simultaneously, indicates that incidents of violence have begun to decline at the Horizon center. Incidents of assault between youths and staff have dropped by 45% to 65% between 2021 and 2024.
Funding and Reforms Needed
Advocates have called for increased funding to support youth development programs and address the impact of bail reforms on the juvenile justice system. The Legal Aid Society has criticized the court system for its handling of youth cases, saying it is a reflection of "widespread judicial disregard" for the 2019 bail reform.
Conclusion
The DOI’s report paints a concerning picture of the state of city-run juvenile detention centers, with overcrowding, violence, and understaffing causing issues. While improvements are being made, more needs to be done to address the challenges in these facilities. It is essential to ensure adequate funding, training, and support for staff and youth to create a safer and more effective environment for all.
FAQs:
Q: What is the purpose of the Raise the Age law?
A: The law aimed to protect 16- and 17-year-olds from being incarcerated with adults in Rikers Island and other city jails.
Q: What are the main concerns highlighted in the DOI report?
A: The report highlights the difficulties in managing the increasing population, the lack of effective behavior management tools, and the struggles faced by staff in maintaining order in the facilities.
Q: What are the proposed solutions to address the issues?
A: The report suggests improving staff training, increasing funding for youth development programs, and addressing the impact of bail reforms on the juvenile justice system.
Q: How do advocates view the Raise the Age law?
A: Reform advocates see the law as a step towards reducing the harm caused by the adult criminal justice system and promoting a more humane and effective approach to juvenile justice.
