Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center

County Juvenile

Last Updated: March 24, 2025
Address
701 South Berkeley Road, Kokomo, IN 46901
Beds
28
County
Howard
Phone
765-457-1408
Fax
765-457-9990

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Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center 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.

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

You can support your loved ones at Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 765-457-1408.

The Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center is a medium to low-security detention center located at 701 South Berkeley Road Kokomo, IN 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 Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center provides a safe and growth focused environment through the operation of Emergency Shelter Care, Secure Detention and Functional Family Therapy. Each program is licensed through the Indiana Department of Child Services or the Indiana Department of Correction. Placement can be arranged throughout the Department of Child Services or Juvenile Probation Department in accordance with the child's Juvenile Court.

The Secure Detention Unit is a twenty eight (28) bed coeducational unit designed to provide maximum security for those juveniles deemed in need of secure custody. All placements will meet detention criteria as established by the Indiana Juvenile Code. The charges of running away alone will not be sufficient for Secure Detention.

The general program structure is based on the Positive Peer Culture Model. This program utilizes the positive elements of the powerful peer counterculture to challenge negative behavior and to provide the motivation to develop more socially acceptable behaviors. The program is based on four values; Help, Responsibility, Respect and Trust. In addition, a Behavior Modification level system is also utilized. Residents are able to earn additional privileges as they advance through the level system. Problems solving groups that include residents and directed by the Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center staff, identify problems displayed by group members and develop an action plan to solve these problems.

A Care Plan will be developed and instituted for each resident within two (2) days of the commitment. The Caseworker will consult with the resident, the resident's family and any other appropriate individuals approved by the placing agency to assist with the development of this plan.

A wide variety of program services are offered to meet the individual needs of residents. An individualized education program is available to all residents and is coordinated by a certified teacher from Kokomo-Center School Corporation. Residents must attend classroom sessions five (5) days per week. Each session will last 150 minutes. Residents are transferred to Kokomo-Center School Corporation schools and complete work assigned or continue working on their home school assignments to maintain their academic status. GED preparation and testing is also available.

The recreational program is a part of the resident's daily schedule. Each resident is expected to exercise for a minimum of one (1) hour per day by participating in aerobics, organized games, or walking. An exercise plan will be created for those residents for whom it is deemed necessary.

Nurse call is available seven (7) days a week. Additional services are provided based upon need. Referral to the facility dentist, physician or a local hospital will be made when necessary. Expense is the responsibility of the placing county.

Life skills education is incorporated into the resident's daily schedule. Facilities are available within the Secure Unit for residents to practice basic skills such as laundry, meal and menu planning and food preparation.

A Christian, non-denominational, worship service is held a minimum of once per week and is open to all residents. Attendance at this service is voluntary and residents will not be penalized in any way for not attending. We will respect and attempt to accommodate worship and dietary needs of their faiths. Additional religious consultation can be arranged on an individual basis. Ministers and Youth Pastors from the child's church may schedule a visit at anytime. Each resident will be required to attend a nutrition education class once per month in addition to their regular educational classes. The nutrition class will be coordination by the Staff Dietary Manager.

Each resident will be required to attend a Communicable Disease class once per month in addition to the regular educational classes required. Information regarding AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases will be available from the Howard County Board of Health.

The counseling program will consist of all residents being involved din psychosocial education, drug and alcohol education and other established programs a minimum of once per week. The caseworker is also able to facilitate, as needed, assessments, evaluations and other services through a wealth of resources in Howard County.

The Individual Care Plan / Treatment Plan will be considered a court order and needs to be addressed as such in the commitment order by the Judge. We request that commitment orders state that the respondent is ordered to follow the Care Plan / Treatment Plan as established by the Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center, including the required follow-up programs after release. Failure to complete the Care Plan / Treatment Plan will be reported back to the court for further action and review.

Post-Dispositional Commitment

The Secure Detention Unit of the Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center meets all statutory requirements to provide Post-Dispositional Commitment. All programs and resources provided in the Pre-Dispositional Program are available, as well as, the additional services and programs as court ordered and deemed appropriate in the care plan.

Additionally, the Post-Dispositional Program can be expanded for those youth who are court ordered to the Cognitive Behavioral Change Program (CBC). The secure commitment portion can serve as Phase I of CBC where the juvenile can earn "good time" by having worked his/her individual treatment plan and be moved to Residential Treatment (Phase II) after having served at least fifty percent (50%) of the commitment time. Lack of progress in Phase II can require return to the secure detention unit to complete the original sentence, or a further portion of it, until they are ready to return to Phase II. For further information on CBC, contact the Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center and we will be glad to forward a packet and admission materials.

Inmate Locator

Juvenile facilities overseen by Howard 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

Visitation at the county or regional juvenile facility is restricted to immediate family members only, including mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers. The visitation guidelines are stringent, and it is advisable to contact the facility staff to ascertain specific limitations. For information on visitation schedules, visiting room regulations, and other relevant details about your visit, please contact 765-457-1408. The facility staff will provide comprehensive guidance to ensure a smooth and compliant visitation experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Robert J. Kinsey Youth Center - 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.

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