Virginia’s only youth prison, the Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center, is under investigation following serious allegations regarding the treatment of incarcerated youth. Concerns have been raised about unsafe conditions, including incidents of youth setting fires and reports of sexual assault by staff members.
Key Takeaways
- Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center is facing scrutiny for inhumane conditions.
- A recent investigation was initiated by the Office of the State Inspector General.
- Staffing shortages have led to a halt in essential programming for youth.
- Allegations include youth being locked in cells for extended periods without basic hygiene.
Investigation Overview
The investigation into Bon Air was prompted by a request from the Commission on Youth, which expressed bipartisan concerns over the facility’s management. The center has been criticized for its handling of various issues, including:
- Frequent Fires: Chesterfield Fire & EMS responded to 45 fire-related calls at Bon Air within a year, indicating a troubling pattern of unrest among the youth.
- Sexual Assault Allegations: A former correctional officer was charged with sexually assaulting a teenage girl, raising fears of additional undisclosed victims.
- Inhumane Treatment: Reports suggest that youth have been locked in cells for up to two days without access to showers, leading to significant hygiene concerns.
Staffing Shortages and Programming Halts
Staffing shortages have been a critical issue at Bon Air, as highlighted in a third-party audit commissioned by the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). Key findings include:
- Program Disruptions: Due to limited staff, nearly all educational and mental health programming has been suspended, contributing to boredom and increased violence among residents.
- Safety Concerns: The lack of adequate staffing has made both youth and staff feel unsafe, exacerbating the already tense environment.
Responses from Officials
During a recent meeting, DJJ director Amy Floriano acknowledged the staffing issues and the challenges posed by the fires, attributing them to a small number of residents. She stated that youth receive hygiene kits during lockdowns, but many remain unconvinced about the adequacy of these measures.
Next Steps
The Office of the State Inspector General is expected to deliver a comprehensive report by December 1, which will include:
- A review of staffing levels and their impact on programming.
- Recommendations for improving conditions at Bon Air.
As the investigation unfolds, advocates and lawmakers are calling for immediate reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of the youth housed at Bon Air. The situation highlights the urgent need for systemic changes within Virginia’s juvenile justice system to prevent further incidents and improve rehabilitation outcomes for young offenders.
Sources
- No fixes on horizon for crowding crisis in WA’s youth prisons • Washington State Standard, Washington State Standard.
- Bon Air, Virginia’s only youth prison, is under state investigation, Axios.
