On June 30, 1992, the U.S. Department of Justice initiated an investigation of the Mountain View School for Girls pursuant to the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA), 42 U.S.C. § 1997. The investigation occurred on November 9-10, 1992 and the Justice Department issued its findings letter on February 26, 1993. The Department of Justice concluded that certain conditions at the detention center deprived the girls detained there of their constitutional rights. The investigation revealed that the mental health services were deficient, that juveniles with disabilities were not properly evaluated or provided with appropriate educational services in violation of the Individuals with Disabilities Educational Act, and that the discipline system in place gave the staff unbridled discretion, which resulted in the placement of children with self-destructive behavior in seclusion and the use of mechanical restraints under circumstances that did not justify their use. Additionally, the investigation revealed that the environment in the building was unsafe and unsanitary as a result of the inadequate maintenance, fire safety risks, and the threat of food-borne illnesses. The detention center also required additional staff, and adequate training for the existing staff.

The Department of Justice required that remedial measures be taken to ensure that the constitutional rights of the juveniles were no longer violated. The measures suggested were the development and implementation of a mental health care delivery system, the compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Educational Act, the modification of the disciplinary policies and procedures, the elimination of unsafe and unsanitary conditions, and the enhancement of professional resources.

We have no additional information on this investigation, or any communications or proceedings that may have followed.

Kristen Sagar - 11/08/2007


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