Dane County WI Juvenile Detention Center

You can support your loved ones at Dane Co JDC on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 608-267-8886.

The Dane County WI Juvenile Detention Center is a medium to low-security detention center located at 215 S Hamilton St Madison, WI that is operated locally by the Juvenile Justice Department and holds youths awaiting the determination of punishment for the crimes of which they are accused. Most of the adolescents are here for less than two years.

The juvenile justice system differs from the adult system, focusing on rehabilitation and recognizing the developmental differences in juveniles. It aims to protect both the child and the public and helps juveniles become productive adults.

Juveniles are detained if they pose a threat, may miss court, or violate court orders. Parental involvement is crucial for effective supervision and rehabilitation.

Key differences in terminology include "taken into custody" instead of "arrest" and "supervision" instead of "probation." Referrals usually come from law enforcement, and an intake social worker decides the juvenile's placement. An inquiry can lead to dismissal, corrective action, or court involvement.

The process includes a plea hearing, possible evaluations, a pre-trial conference, a fact-finding hearing, and a dispositional hearing to determine the case's outcome. Parents may need to cover associated costs.

The Juvenile Detention Center operates with the mission of providing a physically and emotionally safe and secure environment for juveniles who have been temporarily placed by the court. Additionally, the center aims to equip these youth with new skills that will enable them to contribute positively to the community upon their release. With a capacity of 30 juveniles, the center serves several primary purposes for holding juveniles:

1. **Prevention of Harm to Others**: Juveniles may be held in detention if there is reason to believe that their release would pose a risk of harm to other individuals. This ensures the safety of both the community and the juveniles themselves.

2. **Ensuring Availability for Court Proceedings**: If there is reason to believe that releasing a juvenile would result in their unavailability for further court proceedings, such as hearings or trials, they may be detained to ensure their presence in the legal process.

3. **Enforcement of Court Orders and Rules**: Juveniles who have been found to violate a valid court order or rules of supervision may be detained as a consequence of their actions. This serves to enforce accountability and compliance with the legal system.

The majority of juveniles (approximately 75%) are held in detention while their court process and disposition are pending. This period allows for the completion of necessary legal procedures and assessments to determine the appropriate course of action for each case.

Overall, the Juvenile Detention Center plays a critical role in the juvenile justice system by providing temporary placement for youth who require secure supervision and support during the legal process, with the ultimate goal of facilitating their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into the community.