Children in juvenile detention centers, or "juvie", are supposed to be rehabilitated, guided, and supported back into society, not scared into changing. Yet across the country, there are countless reports of excessive force, physical abuse, intimidation, and neglect inside these facilities. Because these are minors, young people who are easier to control and often viewed as “less deserving” of respect, the lopsided power dynamic creates an environment where abuse is extremely likely. 

Many of these children come from rough backgrounds or struggle with mental health issues. Instead of receiving the proper care they need, many are subjected to violent treatment that leaves them with lifelong trauma. Numerous investigations have revealed youth being slammed to the ground for minor misbehavior, pepper-sprayed while restrained, thrown into extended isolation, or receiving threats from personnel. (Petition where this was mentioned: https://www.change.org/p/mp-peter-abetz-stop-corporal-punishment-in-juvenile-detention

This needs to be fixed.

My proposed solution is the creation of an independent organization that oversees these detention centers, one not composed of detention staff, not under the authority of existing correctional departments, and not influenced by any potential bias or corruption within the facilities. This organization would:

• Conduct unannounced inspections of juvenile detention centers
• Review incidents involving the use of force to see if it was used excessively
• Interview detained youth privately and anonymously about their experiences
• Investigate staff misconduct
• Ensure transparency and accountability within these facilities

Children in these facilities deserve a real chance at rehabilitation. When they are abused, it only traumatizes them and fuels long-term trauma. It also increases the likelihood they will re-offend later in life. 

I ask that juvenile justice departments adopt stronger laws regarding the treatment of minors in detention centers and establish an independent monitoring organization with legitimate authority to intervene when excessive force is used.

These are children. Their futures matter as much as any other.

Image from: The Annie E. Casey Foundation and the Annie E. Casey Foundation. “Maltreatment in Juvenile Correctional Facilities.” The Annie E. Casey Foundation, 27 June 2025, www.aecf.org/resources/maltreatment-of-youth-in-us-juvenile-corrections-facilities