Youth Services

Starting Point Prevention Program

A delinquency prevention program located at the Juvenile Detention Facility. It is a free, one-time intervention for parents of children who are displaying at-risk behaviors. The goal of this program is early intervention with the hope of diverting the at-risk youth away from contact with the Juvenile Court.

Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF)

JDF is a 24-hour juvenile detention facility for male and female offenders and alleged offenders who are awaiting court hearings or for placement by the state into residential facilities. The licensed capacity is 33 and the basic services are secure confinement, education, life skills classes, recreation and mental health counseling.

Home-Based Supervision (HBS)

An alternative detention program began in 1990 to divert appropriate juveniles from JDF to their own homes under close supervision of staff. The HBS program places the juvenile on a strict contract which severely limits their freedom to only approved activities. Staff may require juveniles to wear electronic monitors to increase supervision and accountability.

Juvenile Residential Facility (JRF)

The JRF is a non-secure 21 bed residential detention facility  opened in June 1994 to relieve crowding at JDF. The program serves juveniles who require detention services but do not require secure confinement. A diverted supervised living situation is provided for youths from the detention population that is less restrictive and promotes positive ties with the youth's family, school and community.

Judge Riddel Boys Ranch (JRBR)

A 42-bed licensed residential treatment facility for male juvenile offenders in State custody. Services include education, preparation for independent living, behavior management, counseling, employment preparation, recreation and parent programs. The program purpose is to assist youth in preparing to function effectively and lawfully in the community.  Click here for more information.

Typical Juvenile Offender Profile

A typical juvenile offender entering a court-ordered program in Sedgwick County is:

• Caucasian

• 15 years old

• From a single parent home

• Low income

• Current adjudication - Theft or Probation violation

• Priors: 1 - shoplifting and 1 - criminal damage to property

• 2 - 3 years below grade level in reading, math and language skills

• Has a history of abuse (physical and/or sexual)