Conditions At Texas Juvenile Detention Centers Violated Youth Civil Rights, IDEA, ADA

On August 1, 2024, the federal Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that its investigation of conditions at five facilities operated by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) revealed that the state violated the rights of youth incarcerated at the facilities. The DOJ said TJJD persistently engaged in a pattern of abuse, deprived youth of essential services, and discriminated against youth with disabilities. Youth were not adequately or consistently provided with treatment and rehabilitation services. In addition to violating children’s constitutional rights and their rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA . . .