Concordia Parish proposes $3M facility to house 17-year-old juveniles

On February 13, 2025, the Administration of Criminal Justice Committee in Louisiana convened to discuss critical issues surrounding the rehabilitation of existing correctional facilities and the pressing need for juvenile housing. The meeting highlighted a significant proposal from Concordia Parish aimed at addressing the specific needs of 17-year-olds in the juvenile justice system.

The committee's discussions centered on the rehabilitation of facilities across the state, both for juvenile and adult populations. A key focus was the proposal from Sheriff Hedrick of Concordia Parish, who presented a $3 million plan to renovate an existing facility to house 80 17-year-olds. This initiative stems from a recognized need for appropriate housing for this age group, as many sheriffs across the state have expressed similar concerns.

Sheriff Hedrick emphasized that the proposal is not merely about warehousing juveniles but includes educational programs designed to prepare them for reintegration into society. The sheriff noted that the current facility in Concordia Parish houses approximately 800 inmates, indicating a robust infrastructure that could be adapted to meet the needs of younger offenders.

The committee members acknowledged the importance of this initiative, with Representative Reiser and Senator Womack expressing their support. They highlighted Concordia Parish's historical role in corrections and its commitment to innovative approaches in managing inmate populations.

As the meeting progressed, the committee opened the floor for public comments, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions before voting on the proposed awards. The discussions underscored a collaborative effort among various law enforcement agencies to address juvenile justice needs effectively.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a platform for advancing critical discussions on juvenile rehabilitation in Louisiana. The anticipated next steps include legislative consideration of additional funding to support such initiatives, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by young offenders in the state.