SJC Exchange Library

This July 2025 policy study uncovers a systemic epidemic of sexual abuse in U.S. juvenile detention centers, revealing how law changes and survivor disclosures have unearthed thousands of cases across dozens of states. With nearly 27,000 youth held daily, the paper highlights persistent failures of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), escalating litigation costs—including billions of dollars in recent settlements—and widespread staffing shortages that exacerbate risks. The author proposes a robust reform agenda including tighter PREA enforcement, independent inspections, improved reporting channels, and a strategic shift toward reducing unnecessary confinement to protect vulnerable youth.