{Charleston, West Virginia}...Division of Juvenile Services Director Dale Humphreys told legislators Monday that he's not found any major violations at the Industrial Home for Youth in Salem after two juveniles petitioned the Supreme Court last month alleging illegal policies at the detention center. State law forbids solitary confinement for juveniles as punishment, but allows it when they become safety threats. Humphreys says Salem had been confining out-of-control juveniles for five or 10 days, but such confinement now ends once they resume behaving. Humphreys also says Salem issues uniforms, though the law calls for personal or individualized clothing. Humphreys has directed a "time specific" lockdown option be removed, but he doesn't plan on ending the lockdowns. Humphreys was also questioned about recreation time at Salem, strip searches, uniforms, restroom options and not allowing the juveniles to talk with each other at meal time. Humphreys says he believes most policies are proper. The Division of Juvenile Services will have its official answer to the petition at the Supreme Court by next Monday, May 21st.
