The Justice Department released a report on Thursday revealing severe mistreatment in Texas youth lockups, including sexual abuse, excessive pepper spray use, and prolonged isolation, violating constitutional rights. This follows a three-year federal investigation into the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, which houses hundreds of youths annually. U.S. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke highlighted that staff engaged in sexual acts with children isolated them for up to 22 hours, and pepper-sprayed their faces. Clarke noted that approximately 80% of the affected children are Black or Hispanic, calling it "a racial justice issue."
The state juvenile justice department maintained a "zero-tolerance" policy towards abuse and collaborated with federal investigators in 2022. Governor Greg Abbott's office has not commented but pledged cooperation at the investigation's onset. The report indicated that mental health concerns like suicidal ideation and self-harm were neglected, violating the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Clarke emphasized, "Our children deserve to be protected from harm and access to essential services."
Elizabeth Henneke, founder and CEO of the Lone Star Justice Alliance, stressed, "This report makes clear that we are failing our youth, that we are not providing the care they need to be successful." She urged the Texas legislature to respond urgently, acknowledging past efforts but deeming them insufficient. Henneke mentioned that about 900 youths are detained in understaffed and outdated facilities, underlining structural challenges and resource shortages at state and local levels. She advocated for innovative rehabilitation efforts to mitigate the trauma exacerbated by facility mistreatment.
Texas is not alone in facing federal scrutiny; similar investigations and lawsuits have occurred in states like Kentucky, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey, addressing harsh conditions in youth detention centers.
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