Downriver Today

State Representative Jamie Thompson has once again emphasized the urgent need for action regarding the mistreatment of youth in mental health and detention facilities in Michigan. Thompson, who serves on the House Families, Children, and Seniors Committee, called on House Democrats to hold hearings to address the alarming revelations.

In a statement, Thompson expressed his concern for the welfare of children and families, stating, "Protecting children and families is one of my top priorities in the Legislature. This shouldn't continue to be an instance of saying mistakes happen and moving on with promises to improve. That's not an acceptable course of action for families who have loved ones in these facilities."

The call for action comes after a CBS Detroit report highlighted a wrongful termination lawsuit filed by two former nurses at the William Dickerson Detention Facility in Hamtramck. The nurses allege that expired medications were given to children, the living conditions were unacceptable, and the facility lacked sufficient emergency care equipment. Shockingly, when the nurses reported these issues to their supervisors, they were fired.

This report adds to a series of disturbing incidents of mistreatment in Michigan's juvenile facilities. Thompson has personally spoken with families who have loved ones at the Hawthorn Center in Novi and Walter Reuther Psychiatric Hospital in Wayne County. These families have expressed their concerns about communication barriers, restricted visitation and phone privileges, health concerns, inadequate educational services, and limited recreation time for the children.

Thompson empathetically asks, "At what point do we say enough is enough and that children being housed in these facilities deserve better? These were heartbreaking stories to listen to. I stand with these families, and I am committed to fighting for transparency and accountability."

Thompson has taken several steps to address these issues. Before the House adjourned for the year, he sent a letter to House Appropriations Behavioral Health Subcommittee Chair Felicia Brabec, demanding an investigation into the failures of the state's juvenile mental health system in greater Detroit. Additionally, Thompson joined other legislators in calling for a state audit of the Hawthorn Center earlier this year. Unfortunately, these calls for action have so far been ignored.

"The needs of juveniles in the state's care and what has transpired at youth care facilities should be priorities when the House comes back in January," Thompson asserted. "Sitting on our hands and hoping these issues magically correct themselves means the health and well-being of children in Michigan continues to be at risk."

Thompson's unwavering dedication to protecting the rights and well-being of children is commendable. His call for action and demand for accountability in the face of these troubling reports is a reminder that the mistreatment of vulnerable individuals cannot be ignored.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://gophouse.org/posts/rep-thompson-latest-report-of-mistreatment-at-juvenile-facility-shows-problem-isnt-going-away