CNHI News Opinion – October 21, 2024
Not much has changed in the 10 months since our USA TODAY Ohio network journalists exposed troubling problems in the state’s three youth prisons and local juvenile detention centers.
“Chaos in Ohio’s Youth Lockups” found incarcerated children faced violence and neglect, while guards were overwhelmed, understaffed and feared for their own safety. After their release, about 40% of kids later found themselves behind bars again. The findings, published by The Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and Canton Repository, immediately sparked Gov. Mike DeWine to form a committee to examine the issue. . .
The good news is some longer-term strategic progress is being made, including plans to close the larger prisons in favor of smaller ones recommended by experts. But recent inspection reports show the situation may be getting worse . . . The committee found gangs continue to exert influence, likely causing violent acts to increase at both facilities during 2024, including a shocking 31% at Indian River. That has led to kids spending more time in their rooms and more use of physical restraints. DYS employee vacancy rates remain above 20% with employee churn at 59% in Circleville and 44% at Indian River. Not surprisingly, the inspectors detailed low morale driven by mandatory overtime shifts every week and assaults by teens who throw bodily fluids — urine, feces and semen — on them.
In Other Views: Ohio still failing juvenile prisoners | Opinion | cnhinews.com