Butler County OH Juvenile Detention Center (BCJDC)

County Juvenile

Last Updated: March 24, 2025
Address
280 N Fair Ave, Hamilton, OH 45011
Beds
54
County
Butler
Phone
513-887-3865
Fax
513-887-3871

Thank you for trying AMP!

You got lucky! We have no ad to show to you!

Butler Co Juvenile Detention is for County Juvenile offenders have not been sentenced yet and are detained here until their case is heard.

All prisons and jails have Security or Custody levels depending on the inmate’s classification, sentence, and criminal history. Please review the rules and regulations for County juvenile - low facility.

The phone carrier is Global Tel Link (GTL) - ConnectNetwork, to see their rates and best-calling plans for your inmate to call you.

If you are unsure of your inmate's location, you can search and locate your inmate by typing in their last name, first name or first initial, and/or the offender ID number to get their accurate information immediately Registered Offenders

Satellite View of Butler County OH Juvenile Detention Center (BCJDC)

You can support your loved ones at Butler Co Juvenile Detention on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 513-887-3865.

The Butler County OH Juvenile Detention Center (BCJDC) is within the jurisdiction of the Butler County Juvenile Justice System located at 280 N Fair Ave, Hamilton, OH.

Detention centers are for youth who are detained under specific circumstances set by Ohio statute. They hold youth who are awaiting court dates or placement in a residential facility.

The facility provides supervision of youth in a safe, secure, and humane environment. Youth services include education, mental health, substance abuse, and health care. Medical and mental health are contracted services. Educational services are funded by the Department of Education through local school districts.

A typical day in secure detention would involve hygiene, meals, school, structured physical and educational activities, and court appearances as scheduled. The average length of stay in secure detention is approximately 10 days. If a youth is court-ordered and or detained in the Facility the youth will be assigned a probation officer. Please contact the child's probation officer for all questions regarding court hearings.

The juvenile justice system differs significantly from the adult criminal system, recognizing that juveniles' brains and emotional regions are still developing. Consequently, methods effective for adults may not work for juveniles. The system aims to address public interests and the needs of juveniles and their families, focusing on skills and resources to prevent future issues. The primary goal is to ensure the safety of both the child and the public, mitigate any damage from the child's behavior, and help the child become a productive adult.

Juveniles are detained if they pose a threat, are likely to miss court proceedings, or violate court orders. The system balances immediate safety concerns with long-term rehabilitation goals. Parental involvement is crucial, as successful supervision plans require parents to enforce rules, attend meetings, and stay engaged in their child’s progress.

The juvenile system emphasizes education and rehabilitation, with different terminology from the adult system. For instance, "arrest" is "taken into custody," "probation" is "supervision," and "sentencing" is "disposition."

Referrals to Juvenile Court usually come from law enforcement, and the intake social worker decides if the juvenile goes home, to shelter care, or a secure facility. An inquiry can result in dismissal, a corrective action plan, or a court petition. A plea hearing follows, where the juvenile admits or denies the allegations, and further evaluations may be ordered. A pre-trial conference may settle the case, but if not, a fact-finding hearing determines if a dispositional hearing is needed. The final dispositional hearing involves reviewing reports and recommendations to decide the case's outcome. Parents may be required to cover costs associated with the court order, including legal and medical expenses.

Inmate Locator

Juvenile facilities overseen by Butler County do not publish the names of the offenders housed in their facility. As such, there is no public forum for this information.

Visitation Information

Butler County OH Juvenile Detention Center - Visitation

Regular visitation times are as follows:

GROUP B

  • MONDAY - None
  • TUESDAY - 2:15 pm - 2:45 pm
  • WEDNESDAY - 6:00 pm -6:30 pm
  • SATURDAY - 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm

GROUP C/D

  • MONDAY - 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
  • TUESDAY - None
  • WEDNESDAY - 8:00 pm -8:30 pm
  • SATURDAY - 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm

GROUP E/F

  • MONDAY - 2:15 pm - 2:45 pm
  • TUESDAY - None
  • WEDNESDAY - 7:00 pm -7:30 pm
  • SATURDAY - 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm

AUTHORIZED VISITORS - REGULAR VISITATION Authorized visitors for regular visitation times shall include legal custodians, biological parents, and step-parents, as identified by the Butler County Juvenile Court. However, due to space constraints, no more than two visitors per resident shall be permitted at the regular visitation. In the event that family members cannot agree on the two visitors, BCJDC staff shall give priority to legal custodians and then biological parents. NOTE: BIOLOGICAL PARENTS WHO HAVE LOST PARENTAL RIGHTS SHALL NOT BE PERMITTED VISITATION RIGHTS.

AUTHORIZED VISITORS - SPECIAL VISITATION Youth who are committed to an Ohio Department of Youth Services institution are permitted a special visitation which is to be arranged between the Juvenile Probation Department and BCJDC administration. Authorized visitors for special visitations shall include legal custodians, biological parents, step-parents, grandparents, close adult relatives, and siblings over the age of twelve. Visitation shall be limited to no more than six visitors.

AUTHORIZED VISITORS The attorney of record, as well as clergy affiliated with the youth, are able to visit with the resident throughout their stay. To accommodate the daily BCJDC schedule, attorneys and clergy are asked to call the facility prior to arriving.

VISITATION OVERVIEW In maintaining facility security authorized visitors shall arrive for the visitation with very little in the way of personal belongings, limited to car keys and photo identification. Other personal belongings (cigarettes, lighters, matches, personal medications, cell phones, purses/bags, etc.) should be left at home or secured in a vehicle. NOTE: Parent(s) / custodian(s) may bring resident’s medications to visitation, where BCJDC staff will document receipt. However, due to time constraints, school assignments/books shall not be accepted.

Authorized visitors attending regular or special visitation shall be in the public lobby of the Butler County Juvenile Court at least ten minutes before the scheduled visitation. All visitors will be subject to a search by a deputy of the Butler County Sheriff’s Office upon entering the facility. Therefore, visitors should provide ample time to accommodate the search. Ten minutes before the scheduled visitation, BCJDC staff shall announce the visitation, checking authorized visitors off on the Visitation List. Authorized visitors shall have their picture identification available for staff review. BCJDC staff shall provide a quick review of facility rules prior to the group entering the facility. Coats will be secured and the group will be transported for the visitation. NOTE: VISITATION BEGINS AT THE SCHEDULED TIME. FAILURE TO BE IN THE PUBLIC LOBBY AT THE ESTABLISHED TIME WILL RESULT IN VISITATION BEING DENIED. At the conclusion of the visitation, the group will be escorted out of the facility. NOTE: VISITORS WILL LEAVE AS A GROUP. INDIVIDUAL RELEASES WILL NOT BE ALLOWED. The time after visitation provides an opportunity for parent(s)/custodian(s) to voice concerns or questions to BCJDC staff.

VISITATION RULES

  1. Visitors shall enter the facility free from contraband and personal belongings, limited to car keys and photo identification. Other personal belongings (cigarettes, lighters/matches, personal medications, cell phones, purses/bags, etc.) should be left at home or secured in a vehicle. NOTE: THE BUTLER COUNTY JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PERSONAL PROPERTY OF VISITORS. Keyrings shall be devoid of handcuff keys or personal safety devices (chemical mace/pepper spray). Visitors attempting to smuggle contraband into the facility shall be charged with ILLEGAL CONVEYANCE OF PROHIBITED ITEMS INTO A DETENTION CENTER, 2921.36 ORC (F-5).
  2. Visitation shall be limited to those authorized individuals identified earlier in this document. Visitors must produce picture identification. Visitors shall sign the Visitor’s Log, identifying their relationship to the child. BCJDC staff shall check the Visitor’s Log against the approved Visitor’s List submitted by the Butler County Juvenile Probation Department. Any individual found to have falsified information to gain access to the facility shall be charged with FALSIFICATION, 2921.13 ORC (M-1).
  3. Visitors coming to visitation shall not leave unauthorized visitors (children or other family members) in the public lobby during the scheduled visitation.
  4. BCJDC staff shall not accept resident belongings (e.g. books, stamps, pictures, writing materials) from visitors. A child’s personal medication(s) shall be accepted and should be brought to the attention of the BCJDC Shift Leader prior to the start of visitation.
  5. Visitors are subject to search. Visitation shall be visually monitored and recorded by BCJDC staff.
  6. Visitors believed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol shall not be permitted access into the facility.
  7. Visitation may be denied if reasonable grounds exist to believe that the visit might endanger the safety and security of the facility.
  8. Parents/custodians may hug their child at the beginning and end of the visitation. Visitors will sit across the table from the child and will refrain from physical contact. Passing of items is strictly prohibited.
  9. Any visitor who becomes disruptive during the course of their visit will be asked to leave.
  10. Violation of these rules will result in the visitation being denied or terminated, and potentially resulting in a complete loss of visitation privileges.

Thank you for trying AMP!

You got lucky! We have no ad to show to you!

Thank you for trying AMP!

You got lucky! We have no ad to show to you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Butler County OH Juvenile Detention Center (BCJDC) - FAQs about Juvenile Detention Centers

  1. What is a juvenile detention center?
    A juvenile detention center is a secure facility designed to house minors who have been arrested, charged, or convicted of a crime. Unlike adult jails, these centers focus on rehabilitation, education, and structured supervision. Youth housed in these facilities may be awaiting trial, serving short-term sentences, or completing mandated treatment programs aimed at reducing delinquent behavior.

  2. How does a juvenile detention center differ from an adult jail?
    Juvenile detention centers differ from adult jails in their approach to discipline, rehabilitation, and environment. They prioritize counseling, education, and structured activities over punitive measures. While adult jails emphasize punishment and security, juvenile facilities are designed to address the root causes of delinquent behavior, such as trauma, lack of parental guidance, or substance abuse issues.

  3. Who can be sent to a juvenile detention center?
    Juvenile detention centers house minors under 18 who have been arrested for criminal activity, ranging from status offenses (such as truancy or curfew violations) to serious felonies like robbery or assault. Some youth may also be placed in detention for violating probation, running away from court-mandated programs, or awaiting transfer to another facility.

  4. What types of offenses lead to juvenile detention?
    Youth may be detained for a variety of offenses, including property crimes (theft, vandalism), drug-related offenses, assault, gang activity, or firearm possession. In some cases, juveniles are detained for non-criminal behavior, such as repeatedly skipping school or running away from home. The severity of the offense, prior record, and risk level typically determine whether a juvenile is detained or placed in an alternative program.

  5. How long do juveniles stay in detention centers?
    The length of stay depends on the case. Some juveniles are held for a few days or weeks while awaiting trial, while others may serve months or years depending on their sentence. Youth placed in long-term detention typically participate in rehabilitation programs, educational courses, and mental health counseling. Courts may also mandate step-down programs, where youth transition into community-based supervision before full release.

  6. Are juvenile records sealed after release?
    In many states, juvenile records are sealed or expunged once the individual reaches adulthood, provided they meet certain conditions. However, serious offenses such as violent felonies or sex crimes may remain on record, potentially affecting future employment, housing, and educational opportunities. In some cases, a juvenile may petition the court to have their record expunged after demonstrating rehabilitation.

  7. Do juveniles in detention attend school?
    Yes, most juvenile detention centers provide on-site educational programs that allow youth to continue their schooling while in custody. These programs may include core academic subjects, GED preparation, and vocational training. Some facilities work with local school districts to ensure that credits earned in detention transfer back to public schools upon release.

  8. Can family members visit juveniles in detention?
    Yes, but visitation policies vary by facility. Families typically need to schedule visits in advance, follow strict security protocols, and comply with dress code regulations. Some detention centers offer video visitation or family counseling sessions to strengthen relationships before the juvenile is released. Regular contact with family members can significantly reduce recidivism and improve rehabilitation outcomes.

  9. Are juveniles allowed to make phone calls?
    Most juvenile detention centers allow monitored phone calls, though the frequency and duration depend on facility rules, the youth’s behavior, and their case status. In some cases, juveniles may call only pre-approved family members or legal representatives. Facilities may also restrict calls if an inmate violates behavioral rules.

  10. What rehabilitation programs are available?
    Programs often include substance abuse counseling, anger management, cognitive-behavioral therapy, vocational training, and life skills workshops. These services are intended to help juveniles develop positive coping mechanisms, make better decisions, and reintegrate into their communities upon release. Some centers also offer mentorship programs where at-risk youth receive guidance from former inmates or community leaders.

  11. Are juveniles placed in solitary confinement?
    While some facilities still use room confinement or restricted housing as disciplinary measures, prolonged solitary confinement for juveniles is widely discouraged due to its negative psychological effects. Many states have passed laws limiting or banning solitary confinement for minors, encouraging the use of alternative discipline methods such as behavioral interventions and conflict resolution programs.

  12. Can juveniles be transferred to adult prison?
    In some cases, juveniles may be tried as adults for severe offenses, such as murder, armed robbery, or sexual assault. If convicted, they can be transferred to adult prison upon turning 18. Some states allow judges to reconsider these transfers based on the juvenile’s rehabilitation progress, age, and psychological evaluations.

  13. What rights do juveniles have in detention?
    Juveniles have the right to education, medical care, legal representation, and protection from abuse. They are also entitled to due process, meaning they cannot be detained indefinitely without a hearing. Inmates must be provided with access to rehabilitative services and fair treatment under the law. Any allegations of abuse or mistreatment must be investigated by oversight agencies.

  14. How do juveniles reintegrate into society after detention?
    Many juvenile detention centers offer reentry programs, including mentorship, transitional housing, probation supervision, and vocational training. Youth are often connected with caseworkers, social services, and education programs to help them successfully reintegrate. Some facilities also arrange family reunification counseling to strengthen support systems at home.

  15. What happens if a juvenile violates probation after release?
    If a juvenile violates probation, consequences can range from increased supervision and mandatory counseling to community service or re-detention. In severe cases, the juvenile may be returned to detention or sent to a more restrictive program. Courts typically evaluate the circumstances of the violation, the individual’s progress, and any external factors before making a decision.

Thank you for trying AMP!

You got lucky! We have no ad to show to you!

Ask The Inmate

Connect directly with former inmates and get your questions answered for free. Gain valuable insights from individuals with firsthand experience in the federal prison system, state and county jails, and GEO and CoreCivic-run private prisons. Whether you're seeking advice, clarification, or just curious about life behind bars, this unique opportunity allows you to ask questions or explore answers to previous inquiries from the InmateAid community. Engage in meaningful discussions and get informed perspectives from those who truly understand the system.