WA state agency under fire over juvenile justice crisis

The Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) in Washington is facing a crisis that has driven calls for Secretary Ross Hunter’s resignation from various stakeholders, including state legislators and families of juvenile residents. Concerned parents attending a recent oversight board meeting shared alarming accounts of inadequate food and violent staff actions that left young residents without necessary medical care. Despite the escalating concerns, Hunter's responses during the meeting failed to adequately address the issues raised. A spokesperson for Governor Inslee emphasized the need for stability in leadership to facilitate ongoing efforts to increase facility capacity and ensure safety. The situation deteriorated in July, as DCYF announced its juvenile detention facilities had surpassed safe operational limits, resulting in a court ruling against the agency.

Reports from staff highlight dangerous conditions within Green Hill, with alarming incidents of violence and insufficient staffing ratios. Videos obtained by FOX 13 depict instances of inmates being beaten and staff struggling to maintain order. The urgency for reform is heightened, with recent directives from the governor to bolster staff levels at the facility to address the crisis.