Some changes have taken place at the state's juvenile prison in Lincoln County.
An investigation at the Lincoln Hills School is looking into alleged mistreatment of juvenile offenders. The Department of Corrections was recently briefed on the Department of Justice investigation findings. DOJ officials expressed a concern that there was a “culture” at the Lincoln County facilities with some staff that may leave youth at risk for harm. Recently another youth was allegedly assaulted by a staff counselor and sustained serious physical injury.
Corrections Secretary Edward Wall says he has taken recent steps out of concern for the safety of both the youth and the staff. He appointed a new Administrator of the Division of Juvenile Corrections and a new Superintendent of Copper Lake and Lincoln Hills Schools in Irma.
Additional administration has been assigned the Irma facility to help the new team evaluate further issues. Wall stresses they have a critical role in providing public safety and assuring the safe, secure and humane treatment of those in custody.
The ongoing investigation started late last year after the Office of the Secretary for the Department of Corrections became aware of possible mistreatment of youth by members of security staff at the Copper Lake School and Lincoln Hills School. That investigation was turned over to the Department of Justice. No details about individual alleged abuses have been released.
