News

DJJ steps toward accountability

A Times Editorial
Published July 2, 2004

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Anthony J. Schembri, the newly appointed head of the Department of Juvenile Justice, is doing a smart thing. He is sending four-person teams into DJJ facilities to conduct surprise inspections. The new "tactical review teams" could prove to be a valuable tool in Florida's efforts to improve management and reduce abuse in juvenile offender programs around the state.

"I want to make it clear," Schembri said recently. "The Department of Juvenile Justice will take action to ensure the safe treatment of youth in our custody. I will hold staff, managers and providers accountable."

Florida could use that sort of fresh attitude, as well as the inspections. DJJ has been mired in controversy since last June, when 17-year-old Omar Paisley died from a burst appendix in a South Florida juvenile detention facility while employees ignored his pleas for help. A select legislative committee has since documented systemic problems, including abuse, mismanagement and inadequate training, in facilities statewide.

Rep. Gustavo "Gus" Barreiro, R-Miami, who chairs the committee, endorses the unannounced inspections. "This is a bold step, and it sends a strong message that a program, at any time on any given day, will be investigated."

The teams have already inspected two Miami-Dade County programs run by Premier Behavioral Solutions Inc., DJJ's largest contractor, and recommended changes such as better tracking of abuse reports and easier access for mistreated juveniles to lodge complaints. Included on the teams are members of the agency's Inspector General's Office, as well as other DJJ officials.

Though a group independent of DJJ might offer greater credibility, the idea represents a step forward and should be given the chance to prove its worth.

[Last modified July 2, 2004, 01:00:38]

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