A federal judge is ordering Louisiana's Office of Juvenile Justice to remove juvenile convicts from the unit set up for them at Angola.
U.S. District Judge Shelly Dick ruled that the state violated the youthful offenders' rights by subjecting the inmates to solitary confinement, use of handcuffs and mace, and a lack of educational and mental health programs.
Judge Dick called it a case of "promises made and promises broken" when the state transferred the juvenile from the Bridge City Center for Youth to the state prison.
Where the state will house these offenders is not yet known.
In a statement, Office of Juvenile Justice Deputy Secretary Curtis Nelson said they are looking for a solution, but they will also be asking to have the judge's order stayed.
"The plan has always been to close the temporary facility as soon as possible and move the high-risk youth upon completion of the new Swanson secure care facility, which is scheduled to open later this year," said Nelson. "While we disagree with the court’s ruling today and will be seeking an emergency writ, we will continue to explore every option available to us that ensures the safety of staff, community members, and youth in our care."
