Re: “WA lawmakers aim to relieve strained juvenile legal system” (March 17, Law & Justice):
Washington state’s incarcerated youth are facing a mental health crisis that demands urgent attention. Recent reports exposing the inhumane living conditions at Green Hill School, the state’s largest juvenile facility, reflect a systemic failure to address youth trauma and mental health needs. Youth are retroactively charged by Lewis County prosecutors for incidents that often result from the violence and instability inside Green Hill.
Research shows over 80% of incarcerated youth have a history of trauma, suicidality or serious mental illness (Kim et al., 2021). Instead of receiving treatment, they are criminalized further. A review by Gagnon et al. (2022) confirms that most juvenile facilities fail to provide adequate, evidence-based mental health care. Youth at Green Hill report isolation, abuse and lack of therapeutic support, which only worsens their trauma (Barnert et al., 2015).
We need bold action: Stop retroactive charging for incidents in unsafe, traumatizing facilities. Expand community-based diversion programs, so youth receive treatment, not punishment.
Ignoring these issues harms youth, families and communities. Washington must choose healing over punishment. These kids are not lost causes, they are in crisis.
Joselyn Solalindez, Seattle (social work student, counselor)