JLARC Study on Virginia’s Juvenile Justice Oversight Sparks Debate
RICHMOND, Va. – A recent study by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) has reignited discussions about the oversight of Virginia’s Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), currently under the public safety secretary. Advocates have suggested moving DJJ to the health and human resources secretariat, citing improved access to rehabilitation services. However, JLARC’s findings challenge this notion, emphasizing that DJJ already maintains a strong focus on rehabilitation.
In a presentation to lawmakers, JLARC analyst Brittany Utz highlighted that over 70% of court-involved youth do not face detention and instead receive various community-based services. Although the organization acknowledged the success in providing timely and extensive services, it noted limitations in data on program effectiveness, particularly concerning those detained in facilities. A separate JLARC study previously criticized rehabilitation programs at Virginia’s Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center for being “ill equipped” and ineffective at reducing reoffending rates.
Despite calls for a shift in oversight, JLARC found minimal advantage in displacing DJJ from public safety to health and human resources, fearing it might dilute public safety efforts and lead to inefficient service delivery. Both the public safety and health secretaries—Terry Cole and Janet Kelly—concur with JLARC’s conclusions, affirming that DJJ is capable of delivering comprehensive services effectively.
As concerns grow over staffing shortages at Bon Air, which were reported at 51% last year, advocates and legislators are awaiting a report from the state inspector general’s office. A separate analysis by independent consultants also highlighted similar issues, reinforcing calls for timely improvements.
JLARC proposes enhancing DJJ with initiatives including a cabinet-level coordinator and increased funding for community services, as it continues to address pressing challenges in juvenile rehabilitation and public safety.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
