Decatur – The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice announced today the closure of the 30-bed Blakely RYDC in Early County effective April 1, 2011, this is one of two facilities to be closed. DJJ is also closing the Griffin RYDC in Spalding County. The Department’s budget will be reduced by $5.4 million. The youth affected by this move will be transferred to other facilities nearby where beds are currently available.
“The current economic challenges have forced the state to incur reductions in the budget,” said Commissioner Amy V. Howell. “We remain steadfast and committed to keeping our communities safe, serving DJJ youth, and preparing our youth to help build a better Georgia.”
Blakely RYDC’s 48 staff members will be offered positions at other Department of Juvenile Justice facilities. “While DJJ is closing this facility, I am dedicated to working with each staff member to give them the opportunity to remain working with the Department,” said Commissioner Howell.
The Department of Juvenile Justice provides supervision, detention and a wide range of treatment and educational services for youths referred to the Department by the Juvenile Courts, and provides assistance or delinquency prevention services for at-risk youths through collaborative efforts with other public, private and community entities.
DJJ has a staff of over 4,300 dedicated employees managing programs, services and facilities throughout the state. Over 52,000 youths are served annually, including youths who are placed on probation, sentenced to short-term incarceration, or committed to the Department’s custody by Juvenile Courts.
