Maine Proposes New Approach to Youth Behavioral Health Needs in Long Creek Youth Facility
SOUTH PORTLAND, ME—In response to the pressing behavioral health needs of children incarcerated at Long Creek Youth Development Center, Maine’s only youth prison, a new legislative proposal aims to redirect youth away from the corrections system and into supportive services.
Presented by Rep. Grayson Lookner, D-Portland, the bill, LD 740, seeks to empower police officers to refer children to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for comprehensive needs assessments. This measure intends to address the glaring inadequacies currently faced within the juvenile justice system, where high rates of mental health issues persist among young detainees. An annual report from the Department of Corrections highlighted that 91% of children at Long Creek are prescribed psychotropic medication, reflecting a dire need for enhanced behavioral health interventions.
While representatives from the corrections department expressed support for assessing youth needs, concerns arose about potential overlaps with ongoing initiatives responding to a U.S. Department of Justice settlement focused on community-based services. Advocates assert that a proactive approach could significantly alter the futures of these children, many of whom, like Norman Hightower, found themselves trapped in a cycle of incarceration and mental health struggles due to early exposure to harsh incarceration environments.
Jill Ward, director of the University of Maine School of Law’s Center for Youth Policy and Law, suggested that prioritizing assessments at the point of police contact for minor offenses could improve outcomes. With 87% of eligible juvenile cases already being diverted to community services, this legislative proposal represents a critical opportunity for state officials to enhance Maine’s behavioral health initiatives and better support at-risk youth.
As Maine continues to grapple with the challenges within its juvenile justice system, the proposed bill opens a dialogue on prioritizing the health and well-being of its youngest citizens.
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