Findings of unconstitutional conditions at 5 Texas juvenile justice facilities reveal the necessity of living services for youths [Video]

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — In August, the Justice Department revealed that the Texas Juvenile Justice Department engaged in a pattern of abuse and discrimination that seriously harms children and undermines their rehabilitation.

With the recent focus on state-level failings, Eyewitness News spoke with Charles Rotrame, the CEO of Houston reVision, and he explained how local organizations could be part of the solution for these kids.

The goal is to keep at-risk youth out of the system and create scenarios where they can thrive, even after committing an offense. In Harris County, mental health services, supports, and programs are available to help them move forward without touching the adult criminal justice system.

Houston reVision is part of Harris County’s youth reinvestment fund. That means it’s one of the agencies with county funds that can create opportunities to keep young people from becoming institutionalized.