Kitsap County Juvenile Detention Facility

County Juvenile

Last Updated: March 24, 2025
Address
1338 Southwest Old Clifton Road, Port Orchard, WA 98367
County
Kitsap
Phone
360-337-5401
Fax
360-337-5404
Email
mmerringer@co.kitsap.wa.us
Mailing Address
614 Division Street, Port Orchard, WA 98366

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Kitsap County Juvenile Detention Facility 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

Satellite View of Kitsap County Juvenile Detention Facility

You can support your loved ones at Kitsap County Juvenile Detention Facility on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 360-337-5401.

The Kitsap County Juvenile Detention Facility is a medium to low-security detention center located at 1338 Southwest Old Clifton Road Port Orchard, WA 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 Facility, which includes one living unit dedicated to the Secure Crisis Residential Center (S-CRC), is a 103 bed operation, with a total of 8 living units (“pods”), with additional beds in the intake/booking and medical areas. Physically, the facility is separate from the court building. It operates 7 days per week, 24 hours per day, and is equipped to operate for several days on its own should a catastrophic event occur.

Youth who are booked for criminal offenses by law enforcement, or who are ordered to be held by a judge for pre-trial or post-trial reasons, will serve time in secure detention. During the course of his/her stay, s/he will lead a very structured and regimented lifestyle. Detainees are responsible for daily attendance at school, and for cleaning and laundry duties as necessary.

There are no television or radio amenities within the living units (“pods”), and consequently, the detainees’ sources of structured activity revolve around such things as pod educational counseling sessions, drug and alcohol counseling, Alateen meetings, Life Skills Building, religious fellowship meetings, as well as exercising, playing volley ball, and basketball. Detainees are afforded the opportunity for sick and well-care medical services, as well as therapeutic counseling and interventions through the local mental health center and private therapists.

Community Alternatives to Secure Detention Program

Originally funded for three years (1996-1999) by the state Governor’s Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, the goal of this program has been to move lower risk offenders out of secure detention into less expensive community based alternatives. These alternatives have included supervised community service work crews, electronic home monitoring, and house arrest. The program, now funded through County General Fund monies, has an impressive record of reducing the amount of secure detention bed days by over 20,000, with a total of more than 2,000 participants during the program’s lifetime. A total of over 32,000 hours of community service work has been performed at local private/non-profit, public, or governmental agencies. It has been recognized by the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners as one that excels in the areas cost effectiveness and performance.

Medical Program

The Juvenile Department contracts with the Bremerton-Kitsap County Health District to render its medical services to detainees and the residents in S-CRC. The medical staff are a composite of registered nurses, a physicians assistant, and a registered nurse practitioner. Detainees are seen for a variety of common medical maladies, such as colds and flu, as well as being treated for issues ranging from sprains and broken bones to sexually transmitted diseases. The Health District also provides in-service trainings to the detention officers and residential counselors on a host of topics, such as how to treat youth whose health is compromised due to diabetes or respiratory ailments.
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Mental Health

The county's comprehensive mental health center, Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) provides evaluations of detainees and S-CRC residents through their County Designated Mental Health Professionals (CDMHP) for the purpose of involuntary or voluntary commitment to one of several psychiatric facilities. The local facility, the Adolescent Treatment Unit of KMHS is a 10-bed facility, accredited by the Joint Commission On Accreditation For Hospitals, whose mission is to treat youth who are demonstrating behaviors which pose a threat to themselves or others.

Additionally, members of the Care Coordination Team of KMHS provide counseling to detainees and residents as the need arises, initiated either by staff or youth

Food Services

In 2002, the Food Services staff including extra help totaled 15. Every staff member participated in a joint effort to produce and serve a total of 17,466 breakfasts, 20, 310 lunches, and 19, 395 dinners. The 57,171 total meals were guided by the Federal USDA regulations, although considerations were given to additional increases in portion sizes and “detainee friendly” menus.

Inmate Locator

Juvenile facilities overseen by Kitsap 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

Kitsap County Juvenile Detention Facility - Visitation

Visitors must arrive no later than 15 minutes prior to the scheduled visiting time
• Press the Intercom Button on the front door to check in.
• Late arrivals will be denied visitation.

SCHEDULE:
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
Last Names A – L
Tuesday 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Saturday 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Last Names M – Z
Sunday 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Wednesday 7:00pm – 8:00pm

AUTHORIZED VISITORS:
• Parent
• Grandparents
• Legal Guardians
• Ministers
• Attorneys

o Only 2 visitors at a time
o All other visitors must have prior approval by the Detention Manager or Supervisor.
o Picture I.D. is required
o All visitors will go through a metal detector. (Personal items need to remain in the vehicle, i.e. Purses, Cell Phones, Pagers … etc.) Picture I.D. and car keys are the only items allowed in during visiting. Parent/Guardians with more than one youth in detention will be asked to alternate visitation.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:
 All hand carried correspondence will only be accepted through the U.S. Postal Service.
 Youth brought in on new charges and/or warrants will be offered visitation either by phone or in person.
 Parents/Guardians will not be allowed to bring reading material.
 The Juvenile Department reserves the right to terminate your visitation at any point based on probable cause for safety and security of the youth, yourself, the facility, staff, and other visitors

JRA VISITS: 1 HOUR LIMITATION
First JRA sentence only: Up to six (6) visitors; all visitors must be screened by Probation Officer and approved by Detention Supervisor in accordance with JRA Visits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Kitsap County Juvenile Detention Facility - 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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