Purpose

To provide a positive experience for detained youth in a safe and secure environment, while protecting the public safety.

Goals & Objectives

• Provide positive educational opportunities for detained youth
• Increase the number of residents who take the GED
• Allow no escapes from Secure Detention
• Increase exposure of youth in area programs that may assist them
• Boost the self-esteem of youth by allowing them to experience success
• On an on-going basis, develop programs that will provide positive opportunities for youth

Duration of Program

Length of stay in the Secure Detention Program is determined by the committing judicial authority. Typically the average length of stay in Secure Detention is between 22 and 31 days for pre-dispositional admissions. The length of stay for post-dispositional residents may range from 30 to 90 days. The committing judicial authority may determine the actual length of stay.

Eligibility Criteria

Any child subject to the jurisdiction of the juvenile courts may be committed to the Secure Detention Program. The child may be a danger to the community, a danger to him/her self, have failed to appear for a court hearing, a risk to abscond or has previously absconded from the jurisdiction, or may be a fugitive from outside the Commonwealth and subject to a verified warrant. Children may be administratively admitted to the program from other Department of Juvenile Services Programs.

Referral Sources

Traditionally juveniles are committed to Secure Detention by judges, magistrates or Intake Officers from the 7th and 8th Judicial Districts. Children may also be admitted to the Secure Detention Center by Administrative Transfer from other Department of Juvenile Services programs.

Benefits to Participants

• Medical attention, which includes physical exams and transportation to previously scheduled medical appointments
• Three nutritious meals and a snack provided each day that meet national standards
• Psychological services provided by in-house Community Services Board staff
• An educational program provided by the Newport News Public School System
• Religious services are offered on a weekly basis
• Substance Abuse counseling services are provided by staff from the Community Services Board

Disposition

The Secure Detention Program currently operates with both pre- and post-dispositional youth.

Program Operations

The program operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. School is in session 5 ½ hours per day, Monday through Friday during the traditional school year. Evening activities include visitations, religious services, physical recreation, group sessions, and counseling sessions.

Unique/Innovative Aspects

The new Juvenile Secure Detention Center was opened for operation in January 2005.  It was designed to be a state-of-the-art facility that utilizes the best practices in juvenile justice and features cutting edge technology.  The facility allows for better program delivery and a more secure environment.