Other states are looking for models that are less punitive and more effective for rehabilitation of juvenile offenders, and Maine is moving in that direction too.
long creek youth development center
Legislature passes $900 million state budget update
The bill gained broad bipartisan support for the package, which includes $300 direct payments to Mainers who worked through the pandemic.
Mills vetoes ‘fundamentally flawed’ bill to close Long Creek youth prison
Mills also moved to block a bill inspired by Hydro-Quebec’s spending on a potential ballot initiative in Maine.
New Hampshire among states grappling with closing youth detention centers
As states from California to Maine consider drastic changes to youth detention centers, New Hampshire is grappling with its own facility that has been rocked by abuse allegations from years past
Our View: Criminal justice reforms atop Maine Legislature’s 2021 achievements
Now Gov. Mills should sign bills that would close Long Creek, end cash bail and decriminalize drug possession.
Senate narrowly passes bill to close Long Creek within two years
The measure to close the South Portland youth prison passed the House last week but it faces a possible veto by Gov. Janet Mills.
Bill to close Long Creek youth prison receives preliminary approval
The Maine Department of Corrections would have to develop a plan to close Long Creek Youth Development Center in South Portland by June 30, 2023.
Commentary: Community action is necessary for the survival of Maine youth
State funding should be redirected into providing better support for teens and their families and keeping them out of the juvenile justice system.
Lawmakers consider setting a closure date for youth prison
Advocates spoke in favor of legislation calling for the closure of the Long Creek Youth Development Center.
Mother sues over her teenage son’s death at Long Creek in 2016
Charles Knowles killed himself at the youth detention center, prompting scrutiny of how Long Creek treats LGBTQ youths and how well it protects young people with mental health problems.