This letter is to encourage support for L.D. 756, An Act Regarding Criminal Services for Juveniles, and shut the doors of Long Creek Youth Development Center for the last time.
There is evidence to show that incarceration of youth is harmful, does not promote protection and is costly to the communities of Maine. Youth should receive treatment by community agencies, who are mandated to provide safety and health well-being for youth in need.
There have been complaints regarding the care provided at Long Creek Youth Development Center. The lack of engagement and inadequate supervision from staff members are among the factors leading to unacceptable behavior by youth at the center. This discovery has led to major reports of dangerous restraints being used, mental health needs going unmet and other health care insufficiency at the center.
The cost to keep Long Creek open is exceeding millions of dollars. This funding should be redirected toward cost-effective home- and community-based alternatives for the youth of Maine. Community and family support is the answer for Maine, not imprisoning our youth without the mental health support they need.
Lori Pelkey
Enfield
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