Whatcom County Juvenile Detention Facility Guide
Overview of the Facility
The Whatcom County Juvenile Detention Facility is a secure detention center for juvenile offenders located in Bellingham, Washington. It serves Whatcom County and provides temporary housing for youth awaiting court proceedings or serving short-term sentences.
Contact Information
Address: 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone: (360) 778-6400
Website: https://www.whatcomcounty.us/517/Juvenile-Court
How to Locate a Juvenile
Due to privacy laws protecting minors, information about juvenile detainees is not publicly available. Family members or legal guardians should contact the facility directly for information about a specific juvenile.
Visitation Information
Visitation policies and hours are subject to change. Family members should contact the facility directly to schedule visits and learn about current visitation procedures.
How to Send Money
Information about sending money to juveniles in detention is not publicly available. Family members or legal guardians should contact the facility directly for guidance on this matter.
Phone Calls and Video Options
Policies regarding phone calls and video communication for detained juveniles are not publicly disclosed. Family members should contact the facility for specific information about communication options.
Inmate Services and Programs
The Whatcom County Juvenile Detention Facility likely offers various educational and rehabilitative programs for detained youth. These may include:
- Educational services
- Counseling and mental health support
- Substance abuse treatment
- Life skills training
- Recreational activities
Security and Management Information
The facility is operated by the Whatcom County Juvenile Court and adheres to state and federal regulations for juvenile detention centers. Security measures are in place to ensure the safety of detainees and staff.
Legal and Visitation Rights
Detained juveniles have specific rights protected by law, including the right to legal representation and family visitation. For detailed information about these rights, contact the facility or consult with a juvenile law attorney.
Booking and Release Process
The booking and release processes for juveniles are handled in accordance with Washington state law and facility policies. These processes are designed to protect the privacy and rights of minors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of juvenile detention?
Juvenile detention serves to provide a safe and secure environment for youth who are awaiting court proceedings or serving short-term sentences. It aims to protect public safety while offering rehabilitative services to young offenders.
Can parents visit their children in juvenile detention?
Yes, parents or legal guardians can typically visit their children in juvenile detention. However, visitation policies and procedures may vary, so it's important to contact the facility directly for specific information.
Are educational services provided in juvenile detention?
Yes, juvenile detention facilities are required to provide educational services to ensure that detained youth can continue their education. The specifics of these services may vary by facility.
How long can a juvenile be held in detention?
The length of stay in juvenile detention can vary depending on the circumstances of the case and court decisions. Some stays may be short-term while awaiting court proceedings, while others may be longer for sentenced youth.
What rights do juveniles have in detention?
Juveniles in detention have various rights, including the right to legal representation, education, medical care, and protection from abuse. They also have the right to communicate with family members, although this may be subject to certain restrictions.
