The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is implementing strategies to prevent the entry of fentanyl and other substances into juvenile rehabilitation facilities. These strategies include body and bag scanners, wellness checks, and staff training. The agency has enhanced its drug interception capabilities and updated its drug screening process for quicker results.
Felice Upton, Assistant Secretary of Juvenile Rehabilitation, discussed the widespread issue of fentanyl use in communities and prisons. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 65% of prison inmates have an active substance use disorder. In response, DCYF has restricted the items allowed in secure facilities and increased searches.
DCYF has also expanded treatment options for young people with substance use disorders. About 80% of youth served by JR have a known substance use disorder at the start of their sentence, indicating a high demand for treatment. Many also have concurrent behavioral health diagnoses.