Show All Answers

1. What age are your residents?

Generally, the residents are ages 12 to turn 18 years old. We have had some as young as nine with extenuating circumstances and juvenile courts approval.

2. My child is out of control, can I bring him/her to detention for the night?

All referrals to detention come from law enforcement or juvenile court. A child has to have broken the law and be deemed a risk to themselves or the community to be considered for acceptance in the detention center.

3. Do you house boys and girls?

Yes, we have both male and female residents. Our population tends to run a third female and two thirds male.

4. What are your visiting policies?

Only parents and legal guardians may visit residents. Parents may bring siblings and grandparents with them. All visitors must have a photo ID. We have set visiting hours. Please call to schedule visits.

5. Can I call a resident of the detention center?

Residents may only take phone calls from their parents or legal guardians. While on the phone with a parent, residents may talk to a sibling or grandparent. Residents are allowed one 5 minute call a day to or from their home.

6. How long does a youth stay in detention?

This all depends on movement in the court system and juvenile court’s plan put in place for the youth. The average stay in detention is around 12 days.

7. How are youth placed in the community based programs?

These programs receive referrals thru the 6th Judicial District Juvenile Court. Staff work closely with juvenile court to aid and assist in all possible needs of the youth and their family.

8. Do you have home visits?

No, there are no home visits for the youth in the detention center. They can only leave the facility via a judge’s order.

9. How do I get a job at the detention center or in one of the community based programs?

All jobs are posted on the county’s website and in the Cedar Rapids gazette. When there is an opening, make sure you meet the qualifications and apply on-line.