In the dimly lit meeting room of the Washington County Service Committee, members gathered to discuss pressing issues affecting the community, particularly focusing on juvenile detention statistics. The atmosphere was a blend of concern and curiosity as the committee listened intently to the monthly report presented by the juvenile detention center.

The report for September 2025 revealed significant data regarding the youth in the county's care. Over the course of 25 days, the center recorded 22 intakes, with an average length of stay for residents clocking in at approximately 49.78 days. The average daily population stood at just over 9.5 residents, a figure that underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the juvenile justice system. Notably, the most common charge among these intakes was terroristic threatening, with four cases reported.

The breakdown of intakes showed that 14 came from Division 8 and 8 from Division 3, highlighting the geographical distribution of youth entering the system. Additionally, there were six transports during the month, with five managed by the juvenile detention center and one by central EMS.

As the report concluded, questions arose from committee members, reflecting a keen interest in understanding the broader implications of these statistics. One member inquired about unincorporated statistics from a previous meeting, seeking clarity on the direction of ongoing assessments. The response indicated that the information was still pending completion but would be shared once available.

Another member sought clarification on the average length of stay, confirming that the current figure was indeed around 49.7 days, a stark contrast to earlier reports. This exchange highlighted the committee's commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing juvenile justice issues.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the discussions were not just about numbers; they represented the lives of young individuals navigating a complex system. The committee's engagement with these statistics reflects a broader concern for the welfare of youth in Washington County, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and action in the face of these challenges. The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency, as members recognized the importance of their roles in shaping policies that impact the future of the county's youth.