Shuman Juvenile Detention Center lost its license and was closed in September 2021. The result? Allegheny County lost 90% of its capacity for holding teens charged with crimes.
Another result?
A noticeable increase in juvenile gun violence including some shocking killings.
Many would not have happened if judges had the option of detaining teens with violent records. A few days ago, the county announced its intention to “find a solution.”
A consensus is forming.
Most county executive candidates favor a county-run facility. Leaders want the next facility to be more than a jail and give juveniles a chance by providing education, recreation and health, religious and social services.
We say: full speed ahead!
A detention center should be opened with the same speed as the new Fern Hollow Bridge.
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