Columbia’s Department of Juvenile Justice Takes Bold Steps to Combat Overcrowding in Youth Detention Facilities

COLUMBIA: A New Dawn for Juvenile Justice

In an encouraging endeavor to tackle some pressing issues, Columbia’s Department of Juvenile Justice is taking significant steps to address the overcrowding problem in its youth detention facilities. After years of struggling with understaffing and dangerous conditions, the agency has decided to lease a closed wing of the Greenville County jail, a plan approved just last Monday by a legislative committee.

A Need for Change

The decision comes amid alarming statistics. Just the other day, the pre-trial juvenile detention center located on Shivers Road was home to a staggering 141 youth. That’s nearly double its intended capacity of 72! It’s a situation that has director Eden Hendrick and many others in the community deeply concerned. “Continuous overcrowded conditions at our facilities have placed unprecedented expectations on the agency to serve double the amount of youth, many of whom have serious medical and mental health needs,” Hendrick wrote in a letter seeking permission to lease the new space.

Greenville Facility Overview

So, what exactly does this mean? The Greenville detention center is a 22,000-square-foot facility, which can hold up to 47 youths. However, that number largely depends on how many qualified staff are hired to supervise the young residents, with a target to have enough personnel for about 40 juveniles initially. Although it will take some time to reach this goal, it’s a step towards reducing the pressures that staff have been enduring.

For context, Greenville County had to close its youth detention center back in March 2022, moving all the officers to work in the adult wing of the jail due to staffing shortages. Unfortunately, what was envisioned as a temporary fix has turned into a long-term challenge. Even more alarming, recent decisions by neighboring Richland County to close its juvenile wing added about 45 more children to the Department of Juvenile Justice’s already burdened system.

Facilities in Crisis

Conditions have become so dire that youthful residents have reportedly caused damage to the facility, with some even attempting to destroy cinderblock walls as a means to escape. The American Civil Liberties Union has even raised concerns, alleging that young people are living in unhealthy conditions with issues like black mold, broken toilets, and dangerously crowded spaces. It’s evident that many of these young individuals are facing serious challenges, both physically and mentally.

Looking Forward

In an effort to not just alleviate today’s problems but to pave the way for a brighter future, the agency is also making a hefty ask from legislators for $200 million in the upcoming budget to construct a brand new detention center. The current one was only meant for short-term stays of no more than 30 days, but due to a backlog in the court system, some youths have been stuck there for months or even years!

What Will the Future Hold?

This new facility would ideally house up to 120 children and young teens aged 12 to 19, helping to significantly reduce overcrowding and improve living conditions. Moreover, the organization has already set aside a notable $17 million from last year’s budget to repair existing structures on their Broad River Road campus, but with 60% of their facilities still in various stages of disrepair, the need for comprehensive solutions is critical.

As the Department of Juvenile Justice takes these steps, the future looks a bit brighter for Columbia’s youth. However, this journey is far from over. With decisions being made now, we can all hope that the state will invest wisely and effectively in the futures of these young individuals, ensuring that they not only receive the care they need but also the opportunity to thrive.