Delco Juvenile Detention Center Vacated Amid Abuse Allegations

LIMA, PA — The Juvenile Detention Center in Delaware County has been ordered to close following allegations of abuse.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services got a letter from Delaware County officials Friday afternoon and are currently investigating allegations raised.

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, alleged incidents of staff abuse include ignoring a suicide attempt, locking kids in insolation for days or weeks, and trying to induce a miscarriage in a pregnant teen, among other incidents.

Regional staff from the Office of Children, Youth, and Families were on site immediately after receiving the letter on Friday night for initial interviews with youth and staff.

All residents of the center were relocated at the request of the president judge of Delaware County.

The Office of Children, Youth, and Families is launching an investigation that includes a review of all reports made to ChildLine and law enforcement, as well as interviews with staff and former residents.

"At this time, no licensing action has been taken but may be pursued through the investigation," the department said.

The Delaware County District Attorney's Office said the matter has been turned over to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office due to the nature of the allegations.

"The Office of the District Attorney takes the allegations regarding the Juvenile Detention Center very seriously," the DA's office said in a statement to Patch. "We appreciate the willingness of the Attorney General’s Office to assist the County with this investigation."

The Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office declined to comment on the allegations.

A statement from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services said it is committed to a comprehensive investigation into the allegations.