Gov. Mike DeWine, in a recent wide-ranging interview with editors and reporters with the USA TODAY Network Ohio, endorsed a proposal to shutter the state’s three youth prisons and replace them with smaller facilities.
It’s an idea that follows an eight-month, joint investigation by the Canton Repository, Massillon Independent, Cincinnati Enquirer, Columbus Dispatch and Akron Beacon Journal that found significant problems at the youth prisons and detention centers in the state. It also comes at a time when the state is considering replacing the Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility.
DeWine, who appointed a panel of experts to make recommendations following the investigation, suggested opening a dozen or so smaller lockups that would be closer to home for those incarcerated.
“I think it’s the right thing to do,” he told USA TODAY Network Ohio. “It’s important for safety of the juveniles. I think it’s important for the safety of the staff. I think we’ll be better able to deliver services to these juveniles in a smaller setting.”