Overview

Los Angeles County is transitioning control of educational and recreational programming at its juvenile detention facilities from the Probation Department to the newly established Department of Youth Development (DYD). This decision comes as the Probation Department faces significant challenges, including compliance issues and staffing shortages.

The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion directing DYD to develop a plan for the complete transition of leadership for programming responsibilities within youth justice facilities.

Key details

  • The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on April 7 to shift control to DYD.
  • The transition aims to improve programming and services for youth in juvenile detention.
  • The Probation Department has struggled with compliance to regulations set by the Board of State and Community Corrections.
  • California's Department of Justice is pursuing receivership for the county’s facilities due to ongoing issues.
  • Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Janice Hahn co-authored the motion for this transition.
  • Hahn noted that the Probation Department is facing a chronic staffing crisis and challenges in providing quality programs.
  • Youths at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall have requested enhanced access to vocational training and arts programs.
  • Horvath emphasized the need for urgency and accountability in serving the youth.
  • The transition is part of a broader plan called Youth Justice Reimagined, which aims to replace juvenile halls with smaller, homelike facilities.
  • DYD was formed in 2022 but has primarily played a supporting role until now.
  • David Carroll, director of DYD, expressed readiness to take over existing programs and expand offerings for older juveniles.
  • DYD collaborates with contractors to provide services at juvenile facilities and will have staff on-site to facilitate these programs.

Context

This shift in leadership comes as part of a long-term vision to reform the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles County, addressing the needs of youth more effectively and ensuring that they have access to necessary programs and services.

What happens next

DYD is tasked with reporting back in 30 days with a detailed plan for the transition, which will include the organizational leadership of programming responsibilities across all youth justice facilities.

What we don't know yet

It remains unclear what specific changes will be implemented in the programming, how the transition will affect current staff, and the timeline for the full implementation of the Youth Justice Reimagined plan.