Initiatives

Detention Re-entry

Detention Re-entry

The Detention Re-entry Project has been implemented to use local detention facilities to transition juvenile offenders from Juvenile Correctional Centers for a relatively short time period ranging from about 30-60 days prior to their release from direct care. The goal of the program is to establish connections with communities and families. The objectives of the program are to:

1. Prepare youth for progressively increased responsibility and freedom,
2. Facilitate youth and family, and youth and community interaction and involvement, and
3. Establish relationships and begin work with the offender and targeted community support systems.

Memorandums of Agreement between the Department and local detention facilities establish specific criteria for referral, the basic services that include room and board, supervision, education and routine medical and any ancillary services that may be offered by the detention facilities. As of 5/1/07, the Department has entered into agreements with three detention facilities, Shenandoah Valley, Newport News, and Merrimac. Juvenile offenders that reside within the detention home service areas and within about a 30 mile radius of the facility may be considered for placement. The parole officer will establish connections with community-based service providers based on identified needs and services will begin during placement at the detention facility. In order to promote a seamless transition from direct care to community living, the same provider with then continue services upon release. While placed in the detention facility, some offenders may have the opportunity to participate in off-site activities such as employment, community-service, family therapy and home visits. The ultimate result of this pilot program is to impact recidivism by promoting strong community connections and to deter juvenile offenders from their previous life style.