The latest report from the Joseph P. Riley Jr. Center for Livable Communities delves into the state of juvenile detention across the Tri-County region in South Carolina, focusing specifically on Charleston County. The report sheds light on the stark racial disparities and trends in juvenile justice, highlighting the impact on Black youth and males.
Key Findings:
- Racial Disparities: Over the 2021-2023 period, Black juveniles consistently represented 80-90% of those arrested and detained in Charleston. This trend reflects broader systemic issues in the local juvenile justice system.
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- School Discipline: The Charleston County School District saw a significant increase in Code 700 offenses after the pandemic, particularly among Black male students. Expulsions also rose over the years, with Black students bearing the brunt of these disciplinary actions.
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- Arrests and Referrals: Arrest numbers varied over the years, with an increase in referrals to law enforcement post-COVID. Again, Black students were disproportionately affected by these referrals and subsequent arrests.
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- Charleston Juvenile Detention Center: The Charleston Juvenile Detention Center (CCJDC) consistently held the highest percentage of detainees from Charleston County. Black males made up the majority of those detained, a reflection of ongoing racial disparities in the juvenile justice system.
The report stresses the importance of community-based alternatives to detention, calling for initiatives to help keep youth out of the criminal justice pipeline. Charleston is urged to continue working toward transformative justice and safer communities for all its youth.
Download the full report to explore more data on juvenile justice in Charleston, including insights into recidivism, school expulsions, and law enforcement referrals.
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