Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Detention Costs topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Cape May County YSC flags sharp rise in youth detention costs, seeks alternatives
Summary
The Cape May County Youth Services Commission learned that youth detention costs will rise from $350 to $1,000 per day and will explore alternatives, including a proposed joint meeting with the courts to align policies and practices.
The Cape May County Youth Services Commission on Jan. 14 heard that the per-day cost to detain youth will rise from $350 to $1,000, a jump that members said could strain county resources and drive discussion about alternatives.
Chris DeSantis, listed in the meeting attendance as “Probation,” reported the increase and said the state may provide up to $500 per day if a bed is used, but it was unclear whether that payment applies when beds remain empty. DeSantis said the commission is interested in holding a joint meeting with the courts to identify common interests and to update policy and practice; he said he will report back at the next meeting.
Danita Pierce, representing YJC, told the commission she will meet with state officials while developing the 2027–2029 plan and reported there are currently no youth in detention and no referrals to the Youth Justice Commission. That low utilization, members noted, adds complexity to how per-bed funding and costs will affect local budgets.
Commission members emphasized the need to explore alternatives to traditional detention as the county assesses budgetary impacts and program capacity. The commission did not take a formal vote on funding changes at the meeting; DeSantis framed next steps as planning and coordination with court partners.
The commission’s next meeting is scheduled in person for March 11, 2026, when members expect to receive updates on JDAI coordination and alternatives to higher detention costs.
