The U.S. Justice Department has launched an investigation into Kentucky’s youth detention centers following an auditor’s report that highlighted ongoing issues with the use of force and isolation techniques. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke expressed concerns about the safety and well-being of juveniles housed in these facilities, emphasizing the need for proper mental health care and special education services for all children in state custody. The federal investigation will focus on whether Kentucky is adequately protecting juveniles from excessive force, prolonged isolation, violence, and sexual abuse.
The Justice Department will also examine whether Kentucky is providing adequate mental health services and required special education services to youth with disabilities in these detention centers. Clarke emphasized the importance of juvenile justice facilities promoting rehabilitation and reform while ensuring that children can mature into law-abiding members of society. The investigation will encompass eight youth detention centers and one youth development center operated by the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, with a focus on improving conditions to prevent future traumatic experiences for youth in custody.
Governor Andy Beshear expressed the state’s cooperation with the federal investigation, stressing the importance of advocating for the safety of both juveniles and staff within these detention centers. State officials highlighted their willingness to engage in discussions with the Department of Justice to address any incidents, policies, or issues that may arise during the investigation. Beshear recently appointed Randy White as the new commissioner of the Department of Juvenile Justice in an effort to address ongoing concerns and improve the state-operated system.
Kentucky has faced challenges in housing increasing numbers of youths accused of violent offenses, leading to a series of violent incidents, riots, and escapes at juvenile detention centers. In response, Beshear implemented policy changes to separate youths accused of significant crimes from lower-level offenders and provide defensive equipment to detention center workers for self-defense in the event of an attack. The state has also made significant reforms to the Department of Juvenile Justice, including salary increases for employees, additional hiring of correctional officers, improved security measures, and enhanced diversion and treatment services for detained youths.
Kentucky lawmakers have responded to the ongoing issues in the juvenile justice system by allocating funding to support these reforms and enhance safety measures in detention centers. Senate President Pro Tem David Givens expressed hope that the federal investigation would serve as a wake-up call for Beshear’s administration to prioritize the welfare of troubled youth and ensure the safety of staff working in these facilities. The investigation aims to address systemic issues within Kentucky’s youth detention centers and improve conditions to promote the well-being and rehabilitation of juveniles in state custody.
