Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center

What happens when a juvenile breaks the law in Fairfax County? They might find themselves at the Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center, or JDC, right here on Page Avenue. The Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center isn’t just a holding place. It’s designed to be a secure environment that focuses on rehabilitation and positive change. The JDC’s mission is to be a national leader among juvenile detention centers. They aim to provide efficient and equitable services and programs for detained youth. Their vision is to maintain a safe and structured environment. The JDC offers therapeutic programming and services. These programs promote positive change and the overall well-being of the youth. They also ensure community protection, as ordered by the Fairfax County Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court. The center has a capacity of 121 beds. It currently operates with 55, including the BETA program. The JDC houses both male and female residents. These residents are placed there by the court pending pre-adjudication, disposition, or while serving a sentence. The design of the facility, both architectural and programmatic, aims to reduce stress for the residents. Direct supervision and personal interactions between staff and residents maintain security. The staff at the Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center work to provide for the physical and emotional needs of every resident. This includes medical and counseling services, mental health and educational programs, recreation, intake assessments, nutritional services, religious services, transportation, case management, and behavioral and social enhancement services. The Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center maintains a highly structured environment. Rules are consistently enforced. The program strives to create an atmosphere of achievement, recognizing each child’s individuality. They provide structured education, recreation, health, hygiene, and positive adult interactions. The facility’s behavior management program aims to reduce anxiety. It also promotes personal accountability, encourages clear thinking, and provides a healthy environment. The JDC serves the public and meets the needs of families, employees, allied professionals, and Fairfax County citizens. Interestingly, residents don’t need money inside. The JDC provides clothing, hygiene items, and food. Incoming personal property like magazines, books, or stamps must be screened and approved by a program manager. These items can be delivered during visits.