Merced PROB (2025-2026 inspection cycle)

January 2, 2026 Chris Henn, Chief Probation Officer Merced County Probation Department 1880 Wardrobe Avenue Merced, CA, 95341 2025-2026 COMPREHENSIVE INSPECTION, WELFARE & INSTITUTIONS CODE SECTIONS 209 & 885, MERCED COUNTY PROBATION DEPARTMENT DETENTION FACILITIES Dear Chief Henn: The 2025 Comprehensive Inspection of the Merced County Probation Department has been completed. A pre-inspection briefing was held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, and the following facilities were inspected on/between Monday, October 20, 2025 and Thursday, October 23, 2025: FACILITY NAME BSCC # FACILITY TYPE Iris Garrett Juvenile Justice Correctional 7327 JH Complex (IGJJCC) Merced Secure Youth Treatment Facility 7328 SYTF Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp 7330 CAMP This inspection was conducted pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 209 and 885 to determine compliance with the Minimum Standards for Juvenile Detention Facilities as outlined in Titles 15 and 24, California Code of Regulations. In addition to the inspection(s) by the BSCC, Title 15, Section 1313, and its authorizing statute require annual inspections conducted by a local Health Officer, fire authority having jurisdiction, county building inspection by an agency designated by the County Board of Supervisors, County Superintendent of Schools, Juvenile Court, and Juvenile Justice Commission. The results of those inspections are considered a part of this report. INSPECTION RESULTS We identified no items of noncompliance with Title 15 Minimum Standards. Refer to the attached Title 15 Procedures Checklist for detailed information. No items of noncompliance were identified with Title 24 Minimum Standards. Refer to the Physical Plant Evaluation and Living Area Space Evaluation attachments for information related to Rated Capacity. Chris Henn Chief Probation Officer Page 2 An Exit Briefing with your staff was held on Thursday, October 23, 2025; BSCC staff presented an inspection overview and discussed technical assistance and best practice recommendations. * * * Please email me at Eric.Raley@bscc.ca.gov or call 916-336-7165 if you have any questions. Sincerely, ERIC RALEY Field Representative Facilities Standards and Operations Division Enclosures Cc: Presiding Judge, Merced County Juvenile Court* Chair, Juvenile Justice Commission, Merced County* Chair, Board of Supervisors, Merced County* County Administrator, Merced County* Ben Rodriguez, Deputy Chief, Merced Probation Department *Copies of the inspection are available upon request or online at www.bscc.ca.gov. 7327+ Merced JH Camp SYTF CI LTR 25-26 JUVENILE HALLS, SPECIAL PURPOSE JUVENILE HALLS AND CAMPS Board of State and Community Corrections PROCEDURES CHECKLIST1 BSCC Code: 7237 FACILITY NAME: Iris Garrett Juvenile Justice Correctional Complex (IGJJCC) FACILITY TYPE: Juvenile Hall (JH) PERSON(S) INTERVIEWED: Ben Rodriguez, Deputy Chief Probation Officer; Jennifer Medeiros, Division Manager; Supervising Juvenile Institutions Officer Lavizzi; Juvenile Institutions Officer III Jamison; Juvenile Institutions Officer II Chavez; Deputy Probation Officer Munoz; Mee Hao, Wellpath Health Service Administrator; Adriana Garcia, Program Manager, Geo Re-entry Services; Kristen Concepcion, Principal, Merced County Office of Education (MCOE); Christian Quirarte, Job Development Training Technician, Merced County Office of Education (MCOE); Cameia Richardson, Associate Clinical Social Worker, Wellpath Behavioral Health; Seng Yang, Associate Clinical Social Worker, Wellpath Behavioral Health; male and female youth, ages 14 to 20. FIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Eric Raley DATE: October 20 to October 23, 2025 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1313 COUNTY INSPECTION AND EVALUATION OF Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph A. 9B BUILDING AND GROUNDS The following local inspection reports are for On an annual basis, or as otherwise required by law, each the Iris Garret Juvenile Justice Correctional juvenile facility administrator shall obtain a documented Complex (IGJJCC), which includes the inspection and evaluation from the following: Juvenile Hall, the Bear Creek Academy ☒ Camp, and the SYTF Program. ☐ ☐ Issued by Merced County Community & Economic Development, Building and Safety (a) county building inspector or person designated by the Division, Charles Mendenhall, Inspection Board of Supervisors to approve building safety; Supervisor, May 19, 2025. (b) fire authority having jurisdiction, including fire Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph B. 10B clearance as required by Health and Safety Code Section 13146.1(a) and (b); Inspected by Merced County Fire ☒ Department in cooperation with Cal Fire, ☐ ☐ inspected by FAE Morgan Alexander on August 15, 2025. 1 This document is intended for use as a tool during the inspection process; this worksheet may not contain each Title 15 regulation that is required. Additionally, many regulations on this worksheet are SUMMARIES of the regulation; the text on this worksheet may not contain the entire text of the actual regulation. Please refer to the complete California Code of Regulations, Title 15, Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 5 for the complete list and text of regulations. 2 Excerpts from facility policies, procedures, or other reference documents are indicated in italicized text. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 1 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) local health officer, inspection in accordance with Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph C. 11B Health and Safety Code Section 101045; Merced County Community & Economic Development Department Division of Environmental Health. Evaluated on March 26, 2025, by Lao Yang, Environmental Health Specialist III, and Taylor Rios, Environmental Health Specialist II. No deficiencies noted. Nutritional Health Evaluation evaluated by Michael Helwig, Registered Dietitian, on March 28, 2025. Deficiencies were noted and resolved the same day, per DCPO Ben ☒ ☐ ☐ Rodriguez. Medical Evaluation – evaluated by April Brewer, Supervising PHN, Linda Smith, Director of Nursing, and Ignacio Santana, Assistant Health Officer, on March 26, 2025. Upon reviewing the evaluation, all sections were marked either yes (in compliance) or n/a. Mental Health was evaluated by Leticia Servin, BHRS Program Manager, and Alma Avila, BHRS Program Manager, on March 26, 2025; no deficiencies were noted. (d) county superintendent of schools on the adequacy of Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph D. 12B educational services and facilities as required in Section 1370; ☒ Education Program Evaluation conducted by ☐ ☐ Kelli Sharpe, Program Administrator, on February 14, 2025. No deficiencies noted. (e) juvenile court as required by Section 209 of the Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph E. 13B Welfare and Institutions Code; and, Judicial Inspection conducted by the ☒ ☐ ☐ Honorable Paul C. Lo, Presiding Judge, on December 17, 2024. (f) the Juvenile Justice Commission as required by Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph F. 14B Section 229 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Probation Commission as required by Section 240 of the JJDPC Inspectors Jermaine Paster, Katalina Welfare and Institutions Code. ☒ Zambrano, Joseph Hoffar, and Jacqueline ☐ ☐ Yanez inspected the facility on December 6, 2024, and December 7, 2024, and determined the facility was in compliance. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 2 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1320 APPOINTMENT AND QUALIFICATIONS 15B Policy D-101 Note: Compliance with this section is determined by receipt of the Chief Probation Officer’s certification letter The elements of this regulation are confirming that all elements of regulation are met. addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on (a) Appointment January 27, 2025. In each juvenile facility there shall be a superintendent, ☒ ☐ ☐ director or facility manager in charge of its program and employees. Such superintendent, director, facility Policy D-101, Subsection II. manager and other employees of the facility shall be appointed by the facility administrator pursuant to Deputy Chief Probation Officer Ben applicable provisions of law. Rodriguez has been appointed as the Facility Superintendent. (b) Employee Qualifications Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph D. Each facility shall: (1) recruit and hire employees who possess ☒ knowledge, skills and abilities appropriate to their job ☐ ☐ classification and duties in accordance with applicable civil service or merit system rules; (2) require a medical evaluation and physical Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph C examination including tuberculosis screening test and evaluation for immunity to contagious illnesses of ☒ ☐ ☐ childhood (i.e., diphtheria, rubeola, rubella, and mumps); (3) adhere to the minimum standards for the selection Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph A and training requirements adopted by the Board ☒ ☐ ☐ pursuant to Section 6035 of the Penal Code; and (4) conduct a criminal records review, on each new Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph B employee, and psychological examination in ☒ accordance with Section 1031 of the Government ☐ ☐ Code. (c) Contract personnel, volunteers, and other non- Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph F employees of the facility, who may be present at the facility, shall have such clearance and qualifications as ☒ may be required by law, and their presence at the facility ☐ ☐ shall be subject to the approval and control of the facility manager. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 3 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1321 STAFFING Policy D-102 Each juvenile facility shall: At the time of inspection, the Iris Garrett (a) have an adequate number of personnel sufficient to Juvenile Justice Correctional Complex, which carry out the overall facility operation and its includes the Juvenile Hall, the Camp, and the programming, to provide for safety and security of youth SYTF, was budgeted for seven Supervising and staff, and meet established standards and Juvenile Institution Officers (SJIO) and 44 JIO regulations; I/II/III Youth Supervision Staff. At the time of inspection, there were nine vacancies in the JIO I/II/III series. The JIO shift patterns include 10- and 12-hour rotations, with additional coverage provided by six DPOs assigned to the facility in a hybrid ☒ ☐ ☐ role, as well as voluntary overtime offered to other sworn staff. These staffing levels allow for youth supervision staff to concentrate on safety and security and complete their day-to- day responsibilities. Interviews were conducted with facility staff and youth to assess whether the staffing levels were sufficient to carry out facility operations and meet required programming standards. Based on observation and these interviews, the facility is in compliance with this requirement. (b) ensure that no required services shall be denied Policy D-102 because of insufficient numbers of staff on duty absent ☒ ☐ ☐ exigent circumstances; (c) have a sufficient number of supervisory level staff to Policy D-102, paragraph II ensure adequate supervision of all staff members; The Complex, as a whole, has seven budgeted Supervising Juvenile Institution ☒ ☐ ☐ Officer positions, at least one of whom is always present and has oversight of all of types of youth in custody. (d) have a clearly identified person on duty at all times Policy D-102, paragraph III who is responsible for operations and activities and has ☒ completed the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course ☐ ☐ and PC 832 training; (e) have at least one staff member present on each living Policy D-102, paragraph IV ☒ unit whenever there are youth in the living unit; ☐ ☐ (f) have sufficient food service personnel relative to the Food services are provided by Aramark via number and security of living units, including staff qualified the Merced County Jail, located next to the and available to: plan menus meeting nutritional facility. requirements of youth; provide kitchen supervision; direct ☒ food preparation and servings; conduct related training ☐ ☐ programs for culinary staff; and maintain necessary records; or, a facility may serve food that meets nutritional standards prepared by an outside source; 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 4 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (g) have sufficient administrative, clerical, recreational, Policy D-102, paragraph IX medical, dental, mental health, building maintenance, transportation, control room, facility security and other In addition to staff assigned to the housing support staff for the efficient management of the facility, units, the facility provides an appropriate and to ensure that youth supervision staff shall not be number of staff to operate the control room, diverted from supervising youth; and, intake, and other functions. ☒ ☐ ☐ Medical services are provided 24 hours a day, and behavioral health services are provided by Wellpath Monday through Friday, with additional coverage available via on-call. (h) assign sufficient youth supervision staff to provide Policy D-102, paragraph VI continuous wide awake supervision of youth, subject to temporary variations in staff assignments to meet special ☒ ☐ ☐ program needs. Staffing shall be in compliance with a minimum youth-staff ratio for the following facility types: (1) Juvenile Halls Policy D-102, paragraph VI, A (A) during the hours that youth are awake, one wide-awake youth supervision staff member on During the dates of inspection, the youth in duty for each 10 youth in detention; the facility varied from 14 to 21 years of age. ☒ ☐ ☐ During this inspection, the average daily population in Juvenile Hall was eleven youth, with four females and seven males. (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their Policy D-102, paragraph VII, A room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ ☐ youth in detention; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff Policy D-102, paragraph VII, B members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in detention, unless an ☒ arrangement has been made for backup support ☐ ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; and, (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on Policy D-102, paragraph VIII duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility. (E) personnel with primary responsibility for other Policy D-102, paragraph IX duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☒ ☐ ☐ kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. (2) Special Purpose Juvenile Halls Not applicable. (A) during hours that youth are awake, one wide- ☒ awake youth supervision staff member on duty for ☐ ☐ each 10 youth in detention; (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ ☐ youth in detention; 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 5 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in detention, unless an ☒ arrangement has been made for backup support ☐ ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; and, (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility. (E) personnel with primary responsibility for other duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☒ ☐ ☐ kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. (3) Camps Not applicable. (A) during the hours that youth are awake, one ☐ ☒ wide-awake youth supervision staff member on ☐ duty for each 15 youth in the camp population; (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☐ ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ youth present in the facility; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in residence, unless ☐ ☒ arrangements have been made for backup support ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☐ ☒ ☐ the facility; (E) in addition to the minimum staff to youth ratio required in (h)(3)(A)-(B), consideration shall be given to the size, design, and location of the camp; types of youth committed to the camp; and the ☐ ☒ ☐ function of the camp in determining the level of supervision necessary to maintain the safety and welfare of youth and staff; (F) personnel with primary responsibility for other duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☐ ☒ ☐ farm, forestry, kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 6 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1322 YOUTH SUPERVISION STAFF ORIENTATION Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and AND TRAINING Training. (a) Prior to assuming any responsibilities each youth The elements of this regulation are supervision staff member shall be properly oriented to addressed in a memorandum completed by their duties, including: Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on (1) youth supervision duties; January 27, 2025. All full-time youth supervision staff are required to complete training, including the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course, in compliance with BSCC Standards and Training for Corrections. Prior to assuming any responsibilities, each youth supervision staff member will receive at least 160 hours ☒ ☐ ☐ of training on a variety of topics. Supervisors will complete an 80-hour Standards and Training for Corrections approved Supervision Course, and Managers will complete an 80-hour Standards and Training for Corrections approved Management Course. The Standards and Training for Corrections (STC) memorandum from BSCC, provided to Chief Probation Officer Henn and dated September 18th, 2025, stated the agency is in compliance with training requirements. Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (2) scope of decisions they shall make; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (3) the identity of their supervisor; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (4) the identity of persons who are responsible to Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and them; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (5) persons to contact for decisions that are beyond Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and their responsibility; and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (6) ethical responsibilities. Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 7 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) Prior to assuming any responsibility for the supervision Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and of youth, each youth supervision staff member shall Training receive a minimum of 40 hours of facility-specific orientation, including: The elements of this regulation are (1) individual and group supervision techniques; addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. ☒ ☐ ☐ The policy requires a minimum of 160 hours of facility-specific training. Mandated Training is specified according to classification. The curriculum provides standards in a format that allows new officers to understand the expectations and responsibilities of their job. (2) regulations and policies relating to discipline and Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and rights of youth pursuant to law and the provisions of ☒ Training ☐ ☐ this chapter; Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (3) basic health, sanitation and safety measures; ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (4) suicide prevention and response to suicide Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ attempts ☐ ☐ Training (5) policies regarding use of force, de-escalation Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and techniques, chemical agents, mechanical and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ physical restraints; (6) review of policies and procedures referencing Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ trauma and trauma-informed approaches; ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (7) procedures to follow in the event of emergencies; ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (8) routine security measures, including facility Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ perimeter and grounds; ☐ ☐ Training (9) crisis intervention and mental health referrals to Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ mental health services; ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (10) documentation; and ☒ ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (11) fire/life safety training ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (c) Prior to assuming sole supervision of youth, each Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and youth supervision staff member shall successfully Training complete the requirements of the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course pursuant to Penal Code Section The elements of this regulation are ☒ 6035. ☐ ☐ addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. (d) Prior to exercising the powers of a peace officer youth Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and supervision staff shall successfully complete training Training pursuant to Section 830 et seq. of the Penal Code. The elements of this regulation are ☒ ☐ ☐ addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 8 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1323 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY Policy D-102, Staffing, Subsection X Whenever there is a youth in a juvenile facility, there shall be at least one wide awake person on duty at all times ☒ ☐ ☐ who meets the training standards established by the Board for general fire and life safety which relate specifically to the facility. 1324 POLICY AND PROCEDURES MANUAL Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual All facility administrators shall develop, publish, and The department continues its transition to implement a manual of written policies and procedures Lexipol for its policies and procedures; an that address, at a minimum, all regulations that are estimated date for the completion of this applicable to the facility. Such a manual shall be made process has not been provided. available to all employees, reviewed by all employees, ☒ ☐ ☐ and shall be administratively reviewed at a minimum every two years, and updated, as necessary. Those records relating to the standards and requirements set forth in these regulations shall be accessible to the Board on request. The manual shall include: (a) table of organization, including channels of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ communications and a description of job classifications; ☐ ☐ (b) responsibility of the probation department, purpose of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual programs, relationship to the juvenile court, the Juvenile Justice/Delinquency Prevention Commission or ☒ Probation Committee, probation staff, school personnel ☐ ☐ and other agencies that are involved in juvenile facility programs; (c) responsibilities of all employees; Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ ☐ ☐ (d) initial orientation and training program for employees; Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ ☐ ☐ (e) initial orientation, including safety and security issues Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual and anti-discrimination policies, for support staff, contract ☒ employees, school, mental/behavioral health and medical ☐ ☐ staff, program providers and volunteers; (f) maintenance of record-keeping, statistics and Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual communication system to ensure: ☒ ☐ ☐ (1) efficient operation of the juvenile facility; (2) legal and proper care of youth; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (3) maintenance of individual youth's records; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (4) supply of information to the juvenile court and Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ those authorized by the court or by the law; and, ☐ ☐ (5) release of information regarding youth. ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (g) ethical responsibilities; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (h) trauma-informed approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (i) culturally responsive approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (j) gender responsive approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 9 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (k) a non-discrimination provision that provides that all Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual youth within the facility shall have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and provides that no person shall be subject to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, ☒ ☐ ☐ national origin, immigration status, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, mental or physical disability, or HIV status, including restrictive housing or classification decisions based solely on any of the above mentioned categories; (l) storage and maintenance requirements for any Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual chemical agents related security devices, and weapons ☒ ☐ ☐ and ammunition, where applicable; (m) establishment of procedures for collection of Medi- Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual Cal eligibility information and enrollment of eligible youth; and, ☒ Policy J-112, Medi-Cal Eligibility and ☐ ☐ Suspension of Benefits (n) establishment of a policy that prohibits all forms of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual sexual abuse, sexual assault and sexual harassment. The policy shall include an approach to preventing, detecting and responding to such conduct and any ☒ ☐ ☐ retaliation for reporting such conduct, as well as a provision for reporting such conduct by youth, staff or a third party. 1325 FIRE SAFETY PLAN Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan The facility administrator shall consult with the local fire department having jurisdiction over the facility, or with the State Fire Marshal, in developing a plan for fire safety ☒ ☐ ☐ which shall include, but not be limited to: (a) a fire prevention plan to be included as part of the manual of policy and procedures; (b) monthly fire and life safety inspections by facility staff Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan; records were with two-year retention of the inspection record; ☒ provided demonstrating compliance with ☐ ☐ regulation. (c) fire prevention inspections as required by Health and Refer to Section 1313, Subsection (b), Local ☒ Safety Code Section 13146.1(a) and (b); ☐ ☐ County Inspections (d) an evacuation plan; Policy H-101, Emergency Procedures for ☒ ☐ ☐ Evacuation (e) documented fire drills not less than quarterly; Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan, Fire and Evacuation Drills records provided ☒ for review; these were typically completed ☐ ☐ monthly, exceeding compliance with this regulation. (f) a written plan for the emergency housing of youth in Policy H-101, Emergency Procedures for ☒ the case of fire; and, ☐ ☐ Evacuation (g) development of a fire suppression pre-plan in Policy H-117, Fire Suppression Pre-Plan ☒ cooperation with the local fire department. ☐ ☐ 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 10 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1326 SECURITY REVIEW Policy F-101 Key Control Policy F-102 Security Issues Each facility administrator shall develop policies and Policy F-103 Security Electronics procedures to annually review, evaluate, and document Policy H-118 Review of Emergency security of the facility. The review and evaluation shall Procedures include internal and external security, including, but not ☒ limited to, key control, equipment, and staff training. ☐ ☐ A letter confirming the review and evaluation of internal and external security as required by this section was completed by DCPO Ben Rodriguez on January 27, 2025. 1327 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Policy H-102, Emergency Procedures and 0B Communication Codes The facility administrator shall develop facility-specific policies and procedures for emergencies that shall A memo confirming the review of emergency include, but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures as required by this section was (a) escape, disturbances, and the taking of hostages; completed by DCPO Ben Rodriguez on January 27, 2025. (b) civil disturbance, active shooter and terrorist attack; ☒ Policy H-102 ☐ ☐ (c) fire and natural disasters; ☒ Policy H-101 ☐ ☐ Policy H-107 (d) periodic testing of emergency equipment; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-111 (e) emergency evacuation of the facility; and ☒ Policy H-101 ☐ ☐ (f) a program to provide all youth supervision staff with Policy H-118 ☒ an annual review of emergency procedures. ☐ ☐ 1328 SAFETY CHECKS Policy G-118, Safety Checks 1B The facility administrator shall develop and implement A random sample of room safety check audits policy and procedures that provide for direct visual for each month between January and observation of youth at a minimum of every 15 minutes, September 2025 were reviewed; it was at random or varied intervals during hours when youth determined that the majority of safety checks are asleep or when youth are in their rooms, confined in holding cells or confined to their bed in a dormitory. ☒ ☐ ☐ typically varied between ten minutes and thirteen minutes. Of the safety checks Supervision is not replaced, but may be supplemented reviewed, camera audits identified one late by, an audio/visual electronic surveillance system check, which was addressed with staff, and designed to detect overt, aggressive or assaultive the staff was remediated. behavior and to summon aid in emergencies. All safety checks shall be documented with the actual time the check is completed. 1329 SUICIDE PREVENTION PLAN G-109 Suicide Identification Program 2B The facility administrator, in collaboration with the As of the date of inspection, the Juvenile Hall healthcare and behavioral/mental health administrators, section of the facility had one youth who had shall plan and implement written policies and procedures been on suicide prevention plans between which delineate a Suicide Prevention Plan. The plan January 2025 and September 2025. shall consider the needs of youth experiencing past or current trauma. Suicide prevention responses shall be That youth had multiple incidents of respectful and in the least invasive manner consistent ☒ ☐ ☐ statements and indications of self-harm, and with the level of suicide risk. The plan shall include the these behaviors were addressed in following elements: collaboration with agency partners, including Wellpath Mental Health staff, to ensure safety. The youth was released from custody by the Juvenile Court to receive services in the community in May 2025. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 11 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) Suicide prevention training as required in Section Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program 1322, Youth Supervision Staff Orientation, and Training and the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course. Per the Individual Training Plan, youth ☒ ☐ ☐ supervision staff attend training annually on suicide prevention. (b) Screening, Identification Assessment and Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program Precautionary Protocols (1) All youth shall be screened for risk of suicide at The facility uses the MAYSI-2 Instrument to ☒ intake and as needed during detention. ☐ ☐ assess the risk of suicide for all youth at admission. (2) All youth supervision staff who perform intake Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program processes shall be trained in screening youth for risk ☒ ☐ ☐ of suicide. (3) All youth who have been identified during the Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program intake screening process to be at risk of suicide shall ☒ be referred to behavioral/mental health staff for a ☐ ☐ suicide risk assessment. (4) Precautionary protocols shall be developed to Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ensure the youth’s safety pending the ☒ ☐ ☐ behavioral/mental health assessment. (c) Referral process to behavioral/mental health staff for Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ assessment and/or services. ☐ ☐ (d) Procedures for monitoring of youth identified at risk Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ for suicide. ☐ ☐ (e) Safety Interventions Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) Procedures to address intervention protocols for youth identified at risk for suicide which may ☒ ☐ ☐ include, but are not limited to: (A) Housing consideration (B) Treatment strategies including trauma- Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ informed approaches ☐ ☐ (2) Procedures to instruct youth supervision staff how Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ to respond to youth who exhibit suicidal behaviors. ☐ ☐ (f) Communication Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) The intake process shall include communication with the arresting officer and family guardians ☒ ☐ ☐ regarding the youth’s past or present suicidal ideations, behaviors or attempts. (2) Procedures for clear and current information Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program sharing about youth at risk for suicide with youth ☒ supervision, healthcare, and behavioral/mental ☐ ☐ health staff. (g) Debriefing of Critical Incidents Related to Suicides or Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program Attempts (1) Process for administrative review of the ☒ ☐ ☐ circumstances and responses proceeding, during and after the critical incident. (2) Process for a debriefing event with affected staff. ☒ Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☐ ☐ (3) Process for a debriefing event with affected youth. ☒ Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☐ ☐ 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 12 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (h) Documentation Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) Documentation processes shall be developed to ☒ ☐ ☐ ensure compliance with this regulation Youth identified at risk for suicide shall not be denied the Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program opportunity to participate in facility programs, services and activities which are available to other non-suicidal youth, unless deemed necessary for the safety of the ☒ youth or security of the facility. Any deprivation of ☐ ☐ programs, services or activities for youth at risk of suicide shall be documented and approved by the facility manager. 1340 REPORTING OF LEGAL ACTIONS No legal actions have been submitted to the Board during this inspection period. Each facility shall submit to the Board a letter of notification on each legal action, pertaining to conditions ☒ ☐ ☐ of confinement, filed against persons or legal entities responsible for juvenile facility operation. 1341 DEATH AND SERIOUS ILLNESS OR INJURY Policy H-108, Death of a Youth OF A YOUTH WHILE DETAINED No deaths of youth have been reported (1) Death of a Youth. during the time of this inspection period. (a) The facility administrator, in cooperation with the health administrator and the behavioral/mental health director, shall develop written policies and ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures in the event of the death of a youth while detained, which include notifications to necessary parties, which may include the Juvenile Court, the parent, guardian or person standing in loco parentis and the youth’s attorney of record. (b) The health administrator, in cooperation with the Policy H-108, Death of a Youth facility administrator, shall develop written policies and procedures to assure there is a medical and operational review of every in-custody death of a youth. The review team shall include the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ administrator and/or facility manager, the health administrator, the responsible physician and other health care and supervision staff who are relevant to the incident. (c) The administrator of the facility shall provide to Policy H-108, Death of a Youth the Board a copy of the report submitted to the Attorney General under Government Code Section There have been no reports of deaths of ☒ 12525. A copy of the report shall be submitted to the ☐ ☐ youths while detained provided to the Board Board within 10 calendar days after the death. in this inspection period. (d) Upon receipt of a report of the death of a youth Policy H-108, Death of a Youth from the administrator, the Board may within 30 calendar days inspect and evaluate the juvenile facility, jail, lockup or court holding facility pursuant to ☒ ☐ ☐ the provisions of this subchapter. Any inquiry made by the Board shall be limited to the standards and requirements set forth in these regulations. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 13 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (2) Serious Illness or Injury of Youth. Policy H-103, Medical Emergencies (a) The facility administrator, in cooperation with the health administrator, shall develop written policies and procedures for the notification to necessary ☒ parties, which may include the Juvenile Court, the ☐ ☐ parent, guardian or person standing in loco parentis and the youth’s attorney of record in the case of a serious illness or injury of a youth. 1342 POPULATION ACCOUNTING The facility reports the required population 8B and profile statistics to BSCC. Each juvenile facility shall submit required population and profile survey reports to the Board within 10 working ☒ ☐ ☐ days after the end of each reporting period, in a format to be provided by the Board. 1343 JUVENILE FACILITY CAPACITY (EXCERPT) Policy E-401, Facility Capacity When the number of youth detained in a living unit of a juvenile facility exceeds its rated capacity for more than ☒ ☐ ☐ fifteen (15) calendar days in a month, the facility administrator shall provide a crowding report to the Board in a format provided by the Board. 1350 ADMITTANCE PROCEDURES Policy G-103, Admission Procedures The facility administrator shall develop and implement The facility conducts various assessments written policies and procedures for admittance of youth and screenings on the youth when admitted that emphasize respectful and humane engagement to Juvenile Hall, including an Intake screening with youth and reflect that the admission process may form, which identifies medical and mental be traumatic to youth who may have already health information; the MAYSI-2, which experienced trauma. Policies shall be trauma-informed, focuses on community risk factors, including culturally relevant, and responsive to the language and drug and alcohol use, anger, depression, and literacy needs of youth. In addition to the requirements medical criteria and suicidal behaviors; the of Sections 1324 and 1430 of these regulations: DRAI 2.0, which is the Detention Risk Assessment Instrument, a PREA advisement and a Wellpath Behavioral Health receiving ☒ screening. ☐ ☐ Intake staff receive training on engaging with youth during the admission process, understanding trauma-informed practices, and using the information obtained to determine unit classification. Ten examples of admittance documents from January to September 2025 were provided; a review found the process to be consistent with policy and meets regulations relating to admission responsibilities. (a) the admittance process shall include: Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (1) Access to two free phone calls within one hour of ☒ admittance in accordance with the provisions of ☐ ☐ Welfare and Institution Code Section 627; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (2) Offer of a shower; ☒ Youth confirmed during interviews they are ☐ ☐ offered a shower upon admission. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 14 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (3) Documented secure storage of personal Policy G-103, Admission Procedures ☒ belongings; ☐ ☐ Policy G-115, Food Service Youth confirmed during interviews they are (4) Offer of food upon arrival; ☒ ☐ ☐ offered food upon admission. (5) Screening for physical and behavioral health and Policy G-103, Admission safety issues, intellectual or developmental ☒ ☐ ☐ disabilities; (6) Screening for physical and developmental Policy G-103, Admission disabilities in accordance with Sections 1329, 1413, ☒ ☐ ☐ and 1430 of these regulations; (7) Contact with Regional Center for the Policy G-103, Admission, Subsection VI; the Developmentally Disabled for youth that are medical provider will contact the Regional suspected of or identified as having a ☒ Center. ☐ ☐ developmental disability, pursuant to Section 1413; and, (8) Procedures consistent with Section 1352.5. ☒ Policy G-103, Admission ☐ ☐ (b) juvenile hall administrators shall establish written Policy A-104, Legal Basis for Custody criteria for detention that considers the least restrictive environment. Policy G-101, Youth Reception ☒ Policy G-102 Youth Ineligible for Admission ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Only applies to JH (c) juvenile camps and post-dispositional programs in Not applicable. juvenile halls shall develop policies and procedures that advise the youth of the estimated length of stay, inform ☐ ☒ them of program guidelines and provide written ☐ screening criteria for inclusion and exclusion from the program. (d) juvenile halls shall develop policies and procedures These procedures are incorporated in Policy that advise any committed youth of the estimated length I-04, Bear Creek Academy (BCA) Programs, ☒ of his/her stay. ☐ ☐ and are addressed in Policy J-114, Secure Treatment Program, for SYTF youth as well. 1350.5 SCREENING FOR THE RISK OF SEXUAL Policy G-103, Admission Procedures ABUSE Policy E-109, PREA The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures to reduce the risk of ☒ ☐ ☐ sexual abuse by or upon youth. The policy shall require facility staff to assess each youth within 72 hours of admission based on the following information: (a) Prior sexual victimization or abusiveness; (b) Gender nonconforming appearance or manner; or Policy G-103, Admission Procedures identification as lesbian, gay or bisexual, transgender, ☒ queer or intersex, and whether the youth may, therefore, ☐ ☐ be vulnerable to sexual abuse; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (c) Current charges and offense history; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (d) Age; ☒ ☐ ☐ 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 15 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (e) Level of emotional and cognitive development; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (f) Physical size and stature; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (g) Mental illness or mental disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (h) Intellectual or developmental disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (i) Physical disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (j) The youth’s perception of vulnerability; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ (k) Any other specific information about the individual Policy G-103, Admission Procedures youth that may indicate heightened needs for ☒ supervision, additional safety precautions, or separation ☐ ☐ from certain other youth. Staff shall ascertain this information through Policy G-103, Admission Procedures conversations with the youth during the admittance process, medical and behavioral health screenings; ☒ during classification assessments; and by reviewing ☐ ☐ court records, case files, facility behavioral records, and other relevant documentation from the youth’s files. The facility administrator shall implement appropriate Policy G-103, Admission Procedures controls on the dissemination of information within the facility relative to responses received pursuant to this ☒ assessment in order to ensure that sensitive information ☐ ☐ is not exploited to the youth’s detriment by staff or other youth. 1351 RELEASE PROCEDURES Policy G-105, Release Procedures The facility administrator shall develop and implement Transitional and re-entry services are written policies and procedures for release of youth from coordinated by the assigned Deputy custody which provide for: Probation Officer, in collaboration with partners including but not limited to Wellpath Medical Services, Wellpath Behavioral ☒ Health, and the County Office of Education. ☐ ☐ Completed release forms were provided for review; the process involves both Unit and Intake staff, ensuring all of the components below are completed and compliance with regulation accomplished. (a) verification of identity/release papers; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (b) return of personal clothing and valuables; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (c) notification to the youth's parents or guardian; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (d) notification to the facility health care provider in Policy G-105, Release Procedures accordance with Sections 1408 and 1437 of these ☒ ☐ ☐ regulations, for coordination with outside agencies; and, (e) notification of school staff; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (f) notification of facility mental health personnel. ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 16 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 The facility administrator shall develop and implement Policy G-105, Release Procedures, policies and procedures for post-disposition youth to Subsection III coordinate the provision of transitional and reentry ☒ services including, but not limited to, medical and ☐ ☐ behavioral health, education, probation supervision and community-based services. The facility administrator shall develop and implement Policy G-105, Release Procedures, written policies and procedures for the furlough of youth ☒ Subsection II, Temporary Release ☐ ☐ from custody. 1352 CLASSIFICATION Policy G-107, Classification The facility administrator shall develop and implement Classification factors include emotional written policies and procedures on classification of youth stability, offense, sophistication, gang for the purpose of determining housing placement in the affiliation, facility behaviors, and special facility. management factors such as medical Such procedures shall: considerations. The shift supervisor or designee will review each youth’s security ☒ ☐ ☐ classification. Ten examples were provided; a review of classification documentation found the processes consistent in identifying criteria for appropriate safety, security, and placement of youth in the facility. (a) provide for the safety of the youth, other youth, facility Policy G-107, Classification staff, and the public by placing youth in the appropriate, least restrictive housing and program settings. Housing ☒ ☐ ☐ assignments shall consider the need for single, double or dormitory assignment or location within the dormitory; (b) consider facility populations and physical design of Policy G-107, Classification ☒ the facility; ☐ ☐ (c) provide that a youth shall be classified upon Policy G-107, Classification admittance to the facility; classification factors shall include, but not be limited to: age, maturity, Youth are classified based on various criteria sophistication, emotional stability, program needs, legal ascertained during admittance to ensure status, public safety considerations, medical/mental compliance with this regulation. health considerations, gender and gender identity of the youth; On the dates of the inspection, the facility had ☒ ☐ ☐ two occupied buildings and four occupied units. Units A and B housed Juvenile Hall youth, and Units G and H housed Camp and SYTF youth. This may change in the future, due to plans to remodel sections of the facility. (d) provide for periodic classification reviews, including Policy G-107, Classification provisions that consider the level of supervision and the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth's behavior while in custody; and, 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 17 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) provide that facility staff shall not separate youth from Policy G-107, Classification the general population or assign youth to a single occupancy room based solely on the youth's actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ☒ gender identity, gender expression, mental or physical ☐ ☐ disability, or HIV status. This section does not prohibit staff from placing youth in a single occupancy room at the youth's specific request or in accordance with Title 15 regulations regarding separation. (f) facility staff shall not consider lesbian, gay, bisexual, Policy G-107, Classification transgender, questioning or intersex identification or ☒ status as an indicator of likelihood of being sexually ☐ ☐ abusive. 1352.5 TRANSGENDER AND INTERSEX YOUTH. Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, 3B Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ The facility administrator shall develop written policies and procedures ensuring respectful and equitable ☒ ☐ ☐ treatment of transgender and intersex youth. The policies shall provide that: (a) Facility staff shall respect every youth’s gender Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, identity and shall refer to the youth by the youth’s Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ preferred name and gender pronoun, regardless of the youth’s legal name. Facilities may prohibit the use of ☒ gang or slang names or names that otherwise ☐ ☐ compromise facility operations as determined by the facility manager or designee, and shall document any decision made on this basis. (b) Facility staff shall permit youth to dress and present Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, themselves in a manner consistent with their gender Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ identity and shall provide youth with the institution’s ☒ ☐ ☐ clothing and undergarments consistent with their gender identity. (c) Facility staff shall house youth in the unit or room that Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, best meets their individual needs and promotes their Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ safety and well-being. Staff may not automatically house youth according to their external anatomy and shall Policy G-107, Other Classification document the reasons for any decision to house youth ☒ Considerations, III, IV, V ☐ ☐ in a unit that does not match their gender identity. In making a housing decision, staff shall consider the youth’s preferences, as well as any recommendations from the youth’s health or behavioral health provider. (d) Facility administrators shall ensure that transgender Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and intersex youth have access to medical and Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ ☒ behavioral health providers qualified to provide care and ☐ ☐ treatment to transgender and intersex youth. (e) Consistent with the facility’s reasonable and Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, necessary security considerations and physical plant, Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ facility staff shall make every effort to ensure the safety ☒ and privacy of transgender and intersex youth when the ☐ ☐ youth are using the bathroom or shower, or dressing or undressing. Facility staff shall not conduct physical searches of any Policy F-106, Searches youth for the purpose of determining the youth’s Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in anatomical sex. Whenever feasible, the facility shall ☒ Custody ☐ ☐ respect the youth’s preference regarding the gender of the staff member who conducts any search of the youth. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 18 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1353 ORIENTATION Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures to orient a youth prior to The facility provides orientation verbally and placement in a living area. Both written and verbal in writing during admission, and the ten- information shall be provided and supplemented with page Orientation Pamphlet is provided to the video orientation if feasible. Provision shall be made to youth to keep during their custody. The provide accessible orientation information to all detained information reviews the applicable laws and youth including those with disabilities, limited literacy, or regulations, and there are signs throughout English language learners. the facility reminding youth of the rules, as Orientation shall include information that addresses: well as incentives and sanctions. The Massachusetts Youth Screening Instrument (MAYSI-2), the Victim Vulnerability Assessment, and other tools may be used to assess the youth and ensure their ☒ ☐ ☐ understanding of the orientation process. Interviews with youth about the orientation process and their understanding of the information provided by facility staff also confirmed compliance with this section. The youth sign an acknowledgment of the Orientation Pamphlet, which emphasizes facility rules and the PREA policy as it relates to zero tolerance for any sexual abuse, assault, or harassment. (a) facility rules including contraband and searches and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, disciplinary procedures; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (b) facility’s system of positive behavior interventions Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, and supports, including behavior expectations, Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure incentives that youth will receive for complying with ☒ ☐ ☐ facility rules, and consequences that may result when youth violate the rules of the facility; (c) age appropriate information that explains the facility’s Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, policy prohibiting sexual abuse and sexual harassment Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure and how to report incidents or suspicions of sexual ☒ abuse or sexual harassment; ☐ ☐ Youth are required to watch the facilities PREA video and sign the PREA advisement. (d) identification of key staff and their roles; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (e) the existence of the grievance procedure, the steps Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, that must be taken to use it, the youth’s right to be free Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☒ of retaliation for reporting a grievance, and the name of ☐ ☐ the person or position designated to resolve the issue; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (f) access to legal services and information on the court ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure process; ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (g) access to routine and emergency health and mental ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure health care; ☐ ☐ 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 19 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (h) access to education, religious services, and ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure recreational activities; ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (i) housing assignments; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (j) opportunity for personal hygiene and daily showers Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, including the availability of personal care items ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (k) rules and access to correspondence, visits and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, telephone use; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (l) availability of reading materials, programming, and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, other activities; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (m) facility policies on the use of force, use of restraints, Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, chemical agents and room confinement; Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure The Booking Officer verbally reviews the Rules of Conduct, and the youth will sign acknowledging they understand the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ rules. The booking officer will also review emergency procedures with the youth, providing the “Cover” command form and OC Spray form, and the youth will sign both acknowledging and understanding. Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (n) immigration legal services; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (o) emergencies including evacuation procedures; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (p) non-discrimination policy and the right to be free from Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, physical, verbal or sexual abuse and harassment by ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ other youth and staff; (q) availability of services and programs in a language Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, other than English if appropriate; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (r) the process for requesting different housing, Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, education, programming and work assignments; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (s) a process for which parents/guardians receive Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, information regarding the youth’s stay in the facility that Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure at a minimum includes answers to frequently asked ☒ ☐ ☐ questions and provides contact information for the facility, medical, school and mental health; and, (t) a process by which youth may request access to Title Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, 15 Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities. ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ 1354 SEPARATION Policy G-124, Separation The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures that address: 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 20 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) separation of youth for reasons that include, but are Policy G-124, Separation not be limited to, medical and mental health conditions, assaultive behavior, disciplinary consequences and Separation may occur for different reasons. protective custody. Voluntary Separation, also known as Self Separation, represents the youth’s decision not to participate in activities or programming; for example, if they feel overwhelmed and need a cool-down period. If the youth choose to separate for 15 minutes or more, staff shall have a conversation with the youth to assess and determine the reason for separation. Staff initiate a program refusal log, complete an incident report, and submit a referral to Behavioral Health Services. Involuntary separation, also known as Administrative Separation, may occur for various reasons as well, including medical reasons, behavioral health reasons, protective reasons, or assaultive behavior ☒ ☐ ☐ either by or towards youth or staff. In the event of Administrative Separation, the approval of a Division Manager is required, and specified criteria must be met in order to return the youth to regular programming. The youth’s behavior is evaluated each shift as efforts are made to meet the established goals of reintegration. The Supervisor documents progress every shift, provides a summary, and has the documentation reviewed by the Administration. A random sample review of ten examples of documentation of Administrative Separation between January and September of 2025 was conducted and determined the facility is in compliance with this regulation. (b) consideration of positive youth development and Policy G-124, Separation ☒ trauma-informed care. ☐ ☐ (c) separated youth shall not be denied normal privileges Policy G-124, Separation available at the facility, except when necessary to ☒ ☐ ☐ accomplish the objective of separation. (d) when the objective of the separation is discipline, Policy G-124, Separation Title 15 Section 1390 shall apply. ☒ Policy I-101 Discipline Process ☐ ☐ (e) when separation results in room confinement, the Policy G-124, Separation separation shall occur in accordance with Welfare and ☒ Institutions Code Section 208.3 and Section 1354.5 of ☐ ☐ these regulations. (f) policies and procedures shall ensure a daily review of Policy G-124, Separation separated youth to determine if separation remains ☒ ☐ ☐ necessary. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 21 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1354.5 ROOM CONFINEMENT Policy G-108, Room Confinement 4B (a) The facility administrator shall develop and From January to September 2025, there were implement written policies and procedures addressing zero uses of Room Confinement. the confinement of youth in their room that are consistent with Welfare and Institutions Code Section 208.3. The The department’s policy is compliant with placement of a youth in room confinement shall be Title 15, and staff will utilize Room accomplished in accordance with the following Confinement only when other options are guidelines: ☒ unfeasible, thus the low number. Should ☐ ☐ Room Confinement occur, staff work to reintegrate the youth as soon as possible. A review of the documentation process for Room Confinement included the Room Confinement Checklist, identifying the staff responsibilities for the process, the incident report, and the safety check log. (1) Room confinement shall not be used before other, Policy G-108, Room Confinement less restrictive, options have been attempted and ☒ exhausted, unless attempting those options poses a ☐ ☐ threat to the safety or security of any youth or staff. (2) Room confinement shall not be used for the Policy G-108, Room Confinement purposes of punishment, coercion, convenience, or ☒ ☐ ☐ retaliation by staff. (3) Room confinement shall not be used to the extent Policy G-108, Room Confinement that it compromises the mental and physical health of ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth. (b) A youth may be held up to four hours in room Policy G-108, Room Confinement confinement. After the youth has been held in room ☒ confinement for a period of four hours, staff shall do one ☐ ☐ or more of the following: Policy G-108, Room Confinement (1) Return the youth to general population. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-108, Room Confinement (2) Consult with mental health or medical staff. ☒ ☐ ☐ (3) Develop an individualized plan that includes the Policy G-108, Room Confinement goals and objectives to be met in order to reintegrate ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth to general population. (4) If room confinement must be extended beyond Policy G-108, Room Confinement four hours, staff shall do each of the following: (A) Document the reasons for room confinement and the basis for the extension, the date and time ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth was first placed in room confinement, and when he or she is eventually released from room confinement. (B) Develop an individualized plan that includes Policy G-108, Room Confinement the goals and objectives to be met in order to ☒ ☐ ☐ integrate the youth to general population. (C) Obtain documented authorization by the Policy G-108, Room Confinement facility superintendent or his or her designee ☒ ☐ ☐ every four hours thereafter. (5) This section is not intended to limit the use of Policy G-108, Room Confinement single-person rooms or cells for the housing of youth ☒ in juvenile facilities and does not apply to normal ☐ ☐ sleeping hours. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 22 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (6) This section does not apply to youth or wards in Policy G-108, Room Confinement ☒ court holding facilities or adult facilities. ☐ ☐ (7) Nothing in this section shall be construed to Policy G-108, Room Confinement conflict with any law providing greater or additional ☒ ☐ ☐ protections to youth. (8) This section does not apply during an Policy G-108, Room Confinement extraordinary emergency circumstance that requires a significant departure from normal institutional operations, including a natural disaster or facility- ☒ wide threat that poses an imminent and substantial ☐ ☐ risk of harm to multiple staff or youth. This exception shall apply for the shortest amount of time needed to address this imminent and substantial risk of harm. (9) This section does not apply when a youth is Policy G-108, Room Confinement placed in a locked cell or sleeping room to treat and protect against the spread of a communicable disease for the shortest amount of time required to reduce the risk of infection, with the written approval of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, when the youth is not required to be in an infirmary for an ☒ ☐ ☐ illness. Additionally, this section does not apply when a youth is placed in a locked cell or sleeping room for required extended care after medical treatment with the written approval of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, when the youth is not required to be in an infirmary for illness. 1355 INSTITUTIONAL ASSESSMENT AND PLAN Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and Plan The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures for assessment and case planning. (a) Assessment: Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and The assessment is based on information collected Plan during the admission process with periodic review, which includes the youth's risk factors, needs and strengths ☒ including, but not limited to, identification of substance ☐ ☐ abuse history, educational, vocational, counseling, behavioral health, consideration of known history of trauma, and family strengths and needs. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 23 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b)Institutional Case Plan: Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and (1) A case plan shall be developed for each youth Plan held for at least 30 days or more and created within 40 days of admission. Detained youth are given the Positive Achievement Change Tool (PACT) assessment, have risk factors, needs, and strengths identified, and staff develop the case plan within 40 days. The Deputy Probation Officer will develop a case plan for the youth with goals and ☒ objectives. Youth supervision staff als o ☐ ☐ monitor the youth’s progress and meet with the youth, document ing their interactions. Youth supervision staff and the assigned Deputy Probation Officer work together to assist the youth in reaching their rehabilitative goals as related to key life areas. A random sample of ten examples of documentation between January and September of 2025 were reviewed and were found to be in compliance with policy and regulation. (2) The institutional plan shall include, but not be Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and limited to, written documentation that provides: Plan ☒ (A)objectives and time frame for the resolution of ☐ ☐ problems identified in the assessment; (B)a plan for meeting the objectives that includes Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and a description of program resources needed and Plan ☒ individuals responsible for assuring that the plan ☐ ☐ is implemented; (3) periodic evaluation of progress towards meeting Per policy, the youth's plan is updated every the objectives, including periodic review and six months or more frequently. discussion of the plan with the youth; The six Hybrid Deputy Probation Officers assigned to the facility ensure the case plans are completed in a timely manner. In interviews with the youth, most stated that their Probation Officer has been updating their Case Plan each month, rather than waiting for the six-month date. We reviewed ☒ examples of initial and updated plans, which ☐ ☐ addressed the goals established, interventions implemented, and timelines for completion, and found the documentation supported the case plan and outcomes. Within 30 days of a youth’s scheduled release, a Child and Family Team (CFT) Plan is created to establish re-entry and transition goals. (4) a transition plan, the contents of which shall be Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and subject to existing resources, shall be developed for Plan ☒ post dispositional youth in accordance with Section ☐ ☐ 1351; and, 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 24 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (5) in as much as possible and if appropriate, the Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and plan, including the transition plan, shall be developed Plan with input from the family, supportive adults, youth, and Regional Center for the Developmentally Facility staff and collaborative partners, such ☒ Disabled. ☐ ☐ as Wellpath Behavioral Health, were interviewed, and affirmed that meetings are routinely held with the youth in order to provide transitional services. 1356 COUNSELING AND CASEWORK SERVICES Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework Services The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures ensuring the availability of appropriate counseling and casework services for all ☒ ☐ ☐ youth. Policies and procedures shall ensure: (a) youth will receive assistance with needs or concerns that may arise; (b) youth will receive assistance in requesting contact Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework with parents, other supportive adults, attorney, clergy, ☒ Services ☐ ☐ probation officer, or other public official; and, (c) youth will be provided access to available resources Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework ☒ to meet the youth’s needs. ☐ ☐ Services 1357 USE OF FORCE Policy H-112, Use of Force The facility administrator, in cooperation with the Ten samples of use of force occurring responsible physician, shall develop and implement between January and September 2025 were written policies and procedures for the use of force, reviewed; the reports involved youth which may include chemical agents. Force shall never engaging in fights with other youths. The be applied as punishment, discipline, retaliation or review found the uses of force were within treatment. policy, and staff responses and actions were (a) At a minimum, each facility shall develop policies and appropriate based on the documentation procedures which: submitted. BSCC staff interviewed youth and staff as to use of force actions and responses. The facility is in compliance with this regulation. ☒ ☐ ☐ The staff meet monthly, or as needed, to audit and review all aspects of the Use of Force incidents, including the incident reports and camera reviews. The findings made by the Administration post review indicate the staff acted within policy, in response to the identified threat, and articulate the level of force necessary. Use of force incidents at the facility overall show a pattern, with the total number of Use of Force incidents decreasing with each inspection. (1) restricts the use of force to that which is deemed Policy H-112, Use of Force reasonable and necessary, as defined in Section 1302 ☒ to ensure the safety and security of youth, staff, others ☐ ☐ and the facility. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 25 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (2) outline the force options available to staff including Policy H-112, Use of Force both physical and non-physical options and define when those force options are appropriate. The continuum of options includes Officer ☒ ☐ ☐ Presence, Counseling, Verbal Commands, Empty Hand Controls, Defensive Tactics, and OC Spray. (3) describe force options or techniques that are Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ expressly prohibited by the facility. ☐ ☐ (4) describe the requirements of staff to report any Policy H-112, Use of Force inappropriate use of force, and to take affirmative ☒ ☐ ☐ action to immediately stop it. (5) define a standardized reporting format that Policy H-112, Use of Force includes time period and procedure for documenting and reporting the use of force, including reporting requirements of management and line staff and procedures for reviewing and tracking use of force incidents by supervisory and or management staff, ☒ ☐ ☐ which include procedures for debriefing a particular incident with staff and/or youth for the purposes of training as well as mitigating the effects of trauma that may have been experienced by staff and /or the youth involved. (6) Include an administrative review and a system for Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ investigating unreasonable use of force. ☐ ☐ (7) define the role, notification, and follow-up Policy H-112, Use of Force procedures required after use of force incidents for medical, mental health staff and parents or legal Medical staff are immediately notified and guardians. typically respond to the units to provide direct care and confirmation of decontamination if OC spray is used. Behavioral health staff are ☒ ☐ ☐ also notified and respond if they are on-site; if not, they respond upon their return, unless requested. In addition, documentation confirms that the youth’s parents or legal guardians are notified. (8) describe the limitations of use of force on pregnant Policy H-112, Use of Force youth in accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) ☒ and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. ☐ ☐ Policy H-116, Pregnant Youth (b) Facilities that authorize chemical agents as a force Policy H-112, Use of Force option shall include policies and procedures that: (1) identify who is approved to carry and/or utilize ☒ chemical agents in the facility and the type, size and ☐ ☐ the approved method of deployment for those chemical agents. (2) mandate that chemical agents only be used when Policy H-112, Use of Force there is an imminent threat to the youth’s safety or the safety of others and only when de-escalation efforts ☒ ☐ ☐ have been unsuccessful or are not reasonably possible. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 26 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (3) outline the facility’s approved methods and Policy H-112, Use of Force timelines for decontamination from chemical agents. This shall include that youth who have been exposed ☒ to chemical agents shall not be left unattended until ☐ ☐ that youth is fully decontaminated or is no longer suffering the effects of the chemical agent. (4) define the role, notification, and follow-up Policy H-112, Use of Force procedures required after use of force incidents ☒ involving chemical agents for medical, mental health ☐ ☐ staff and parents or legal guardians. (5) provide for the documentation of each incident of Policy H-112, Use of Force use of chemical agents, including the reasons for which it was used, efforts to de-escalate prior to use, youth and staff involved, the date, time and location ☒ ☐ ☐ of use, decontamination procedures applied and identification of any injuries sustained as a result of such use. (c) Facilities shall develop policies and procedure which Policy H-112, Use of Force require that agencies provide initial and regular training in use of force and chemical agents when appropriate Following the completion of JCO Core, staff that address: ☒ receive sixteen or more hours of training in ☐ ☐ (1) known medical and behavioral health conditions unarmed defense, weaponless techniques, that would contraindicate certain types of force; and OC spray annually. (2) acceptable chemical agents and the methods of Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ application. ☐ ☐ (3) signs or symptoms that should result in immediate Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ referral to medical or behavioral health. ☐ ☐ (4) instruction on the Constitutional Limitations of Use Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ of Force. ☐ ☐ (5) physical training force options that may require Policy H-112, Use of Force, Training the use of perishable skills. Requirements for Physical / OC Spray Force ☒ ☐ ☐ Interventions (6) timelines the facility uses to define regular Policy H-112, Use of Force, Training training. Requirements for Physical / OC Spray Force ☒ Interventions, Subsection IV, update training ☐ ☐ annually 1358 USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINTS Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints within the Facility The facility administrator, in cooperation with the responsible physician and mental health director, shall develop and implement written policies and procedures ☒ ☐ ☐ The facility had no youth placed in restraints as it pertained to this regulation. for the use of restraint devices. Restraint devices include any devices which immobilize a youth's extremities and/or prevent the youth from being ambulatory. Physical restraints may be used only for those youth who Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints present an immediate danger to themselves or others, within the Facility who exhibit behavior which results in the destruction of property, or reveals the intent to cause self-inflicted ☒ ☐ ☐ physical harm. Physical restraints should be utilized only when it appears less restrictive alternatives would be ineffective in controlling the youth’s behavior. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 27 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 In no case shall restraints be used as punishment or Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints discipline, or as a substitute for treatment. The use of within the Facility restraint devices that attach a youth to a wall, floor or other fixture, including a restraint chair, or through affixing of ☒ hands and feet together behind the back (hogtying) is ☐ ☐ prohibited. The use of restraints on pregnant youth is limited in accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. The provisions of this section do not apply to the use of Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints handcuffs, shackles or other restraint devices when used within the Facility to restrain youth for movement or transportation within the ☒ facility. Movement within the facility shall be governed by ☐ ☐ Section 1358.5, Use of Restraint Devices for Movement Within the Facility. Youth shall be placed in restraints only with the approval Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints of the facility manager or designee. The facility manager within the Facility may delegate authority to place a youth in restraints to a ☒ physician. Reasons for continued retention in restraints ☐ ☐ shall be reviewed and documented at a minimum of every hour. A medical opinion on the safety of placement and Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints retention shall be secured as soon as possible, but no within the Facility later than two hours from the time of placement. The youth ☒ ☐ ☐ shall be medically cleared for continued retention at least every three hours thereafter. A mental health consultation shall be secured as soon as Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints possible, but in no case longer than four hours from the within the Facility ☒ time of placement, to assess the need for mental health ☐ ☐ treatment. Continuous direct visual supervision shall be conducted Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints to ensure that the restraints are properly employed, and within the Facility to ensure the safety and well-being of the youth. ☒ Observations of the youth's behavior and any staff ☐ ☐ interventions shall be documented at least every 15 minutes, with actual time of the documentation recorded. In addition to the requirements above, policies and Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints procedures shall address: within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ (a) documentation of the circumstances leading to an application of restraints. (b) known medical conditions that would contraindicate Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints certain restraint devices and/or techniques. within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ (c) acceptable restraint devices. Policy F-107, Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints within the Facility The facility has identified hard restraint ☒ ☐ ☐ devices as metal handcuffs or leg shackles, and soft restraints as plastic cuffs, cloth restraints, and the WRAP restraining device. (d) signs or symptoms which should result in immediate Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints medical/mental health referral. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 28 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) availability of cardiopulmonary resuscitation Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints equipment. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility (f) protective housing of restrained youth. While in Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints restraint devices, all youth shall be housed alone or in a within the Facility specified housing area for restrained youth which makes ☒ ☐ ☐ provision to protect the youth from abuse. Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints (g) provision for hydration and sanitation needs. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints (h) exercising of extremities. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility 1358.5 USE OF RESTRAINT DEVICES FOR Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints 5B MOVEMENT AND TRANSPORTATION WITHIN within the Facility THE FACILITY. Ten examples of the use of restraints for The Facility Administrator, in cooperation with the movement and transportation within the responsible physician and behavioral/mental health facility between January and September director, shall develop and implement written policies 2025 were provided. A review of and procedures for the use of restraint devices when the documentation indicated that restraint use purpose is for movement or transportation within the was for assaultive behavior and behavior facility that shall include the following: resulting in safety or security concerns. The (a) identification of acceptable restraint devices, staff youth were moved from their location, or the approved to utilize restraint devices and the required location of the incident, to their rooms where training. ☒ ☐ ☐ the restraints were removed. Staff are required to document the circumstances leading to the restraint, the less restrictive measures considered, known medical conditions, and the consideration of trauma due to the restraint application. The justification is documented on a “Restraint Device Assessment for Movement and Transportation Within the Facility” form. (b) the circumstances leading to the application of Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints ☒ ☐ ☐ restraints must be documented. within the Facility (c) an individual assessment of the need to apply Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints restraints for movement or transportation that includes within the Facility consideration of less restrictive alternatives, consideration of a youth’s known medical or mental ☒ ☐ ☐ health conditions, trauma informed approaches, and a process for documentation and supervisor review and approval. (d) consideration of safety and security of the facility, Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints with a clearly defined expectation that restraint devices within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ shall not be used for the purposes of discipline or retaliation. (e) the use of restraints on pregnant youth is limited in Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) and within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. Policy H-116, Pregnant Youth 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 29 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1359 SAFETY ROOM PROCEDURES Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (a) The facility administrator, and where applicable, in There have been zero uses of the Safety cooperation with the responsible physician, shall Room in Intake between January and develop and implement written policies and procedures September 2025. governing the use of safety rooms, as described in Title 24, Part 2, Section 1230.1.13. The room shall be used to hold only those youth who present an immediate ☒ ☐ ☐ danger to themselves or others, who exhibit behavior which results in the destruction of property, or reveals the intent to cause self-inflicted physical harm. A safety room shall not be used for punishment or discipline, or as a substitute for treatment. Policies and procedures shall: (1) include provisions for administration of necessary Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. nutrition and fluids, access to a toilet, and suitable ☒ ☐ ☐ clothing to provide for privacy; (2) provide for approval of the facility manager, or Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. ☒ ☐ ☐ designee, before a youth is placed into a safety room; (3) provide for continuous direct visual supervision Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. and documentation of the youth's behavior and any ☒ ☐ ☐ staff interventions every 15 minutes, with actual time recorded; (4) provide that the youth shall be evaluated by the Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. ☒ ☐ ☐ facility manager, or designee, every four hours; (5) provide for immediate medical assessment, Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. where appropriate, or an assessment at the next ☒ ☐ ☐ daily sick call; and, (6) provide a process for documenting the reason for Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. placement, including attempts to use less restrictive ☒ ☐ ☐ means of control, and decisions to continue and end placement. (b) The placement of a youth in the safety room shall be Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. accomplished in accordance with the following: (1) safety room shall not be used before other less ☒ ☐ ☐ restrictive options have been attempted and exhausted, unless attempting those options poses a threat to the safety or security of any youth or staff. (2) safety room shall not be used for the purposes of Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. punishment, coercion, convenience, or retaliation by ☒ ☐ ☐ staff. (3) safety room shall not be used to the extent that it Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. compromises the mental and physical health of the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth. (c) A youth may be held up to four hours in the safety Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. room. After the youth has been held in the safety room ☒ ☐ ☐ for a period of four hours, staff shall do one or more of the following: (1) return the youth to general population. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (2) consult with mental health or medical staff, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (3) develop an individualized plan that includes the Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. goals and objectives to be met in order to reintegrate ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth to general population. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 30 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (d) If confinement in the safety room must be extended Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. beyond four hours, staff shall develop an individualized plan that includes the requirements of Section 1354.5 ☒ ☐ ☐ and the goals and objectives to be met in order to integrate the youth to general population. 1360 SEARCHES Policy F-106, Searches The facility administrator shall develop and implement Includes types of searches, procedures for written policies and procedures governing the search of pat-down searches, provisions for youth, the facility, and visitors. transgender/intersex pat-down searches, Policies and procedures shall provide that: ☒ ☐ ☐ metal detector searches, room searches, perimeter searches, etc. (a) Searches shall be conducted to ensure the safety Policy F-106, Searches and security of the facility, public, visitors, youth, and ☒ ☐ ☐ staff. (b) Searches shall be conducted in a manner that Policy F-106, Searches preserves the privacy and dignity of the person being ☒ ☐ ☐ searched and shall not be conducted for harassment or as a form of discipline or punishment. (c) Strip searches and visual or physical body cavity Policy F-106, Searches searches shall comply with Penal Code Section 4030. Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody The Justification for Strip Search form articulates the requirements to do the search, including providing documentation of reasonable cause and Supervisor Approval. ☒ ☐ ☐ Between January and September 2025, a total of three strip searches were conducted at the facility. In each instance, the Justification Form was completed and signed. We reviewed Strip Search Authorization forms and found the necessary reasonable suspicion articulated with accompanying supervisor approval. (d) Physical body cavity searches shall only be Policy F-106, Searches conducted by a medical professional. Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody ☒ ☐ ☐ No physical body cavity searches have been conducted at the facility in this inspection cycle. (e) Any youth held after a detention hearing shall only be Policy F-106, Searches strip searched with prior approval of a supervisor when there is reasonable suspicion based on specific and Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in ☒ ☐ ☐ articulable facts to believe that youth is concealing Custody contraband. The reasonable suspicion shall be documented. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 31 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (f) Searches of transgender and intersex youth shall Policy F-106, Searches comply with Section 1352.5. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody (g) Cross-gender pat-down searches and strip searches Policy F-106, Searches are prohibited except in exigent circumstances or when conducted by a medical professional. Such searches ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in must be justified and documented in writing. Custody 1361 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure The facility administrator shall develop and implement Grievance forms were located on each unit, written policies and procedures whereby any youth may and all youth and staff interviewed knew of appeal and have resolved grievances relating to any the grievance process and the location of the condition of confinement, including but not limited to forms. A random sample of ten grievances health care services, classification decisions, program between January and September of 2025 participation, telephone, mail or visiting procedures, ☒ ☐ ☐ were reviewed and revealed that the two food, clothing, bedding, mistreatment, harassment or most common concerns resulting in a violations of the nondiscrimination policy. There shall be grievance submission were regarding the no time limit on filing grievances. Policies and youths’ behavior program points and the food procedures shall include provisions whereby the facility being provided in the facility. All grievances manager ensures: were resolved within the required ten-day time frame, and the facility is in compliance. (a) a grievance form and instructions for registering a Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure grievance, which includes provisions for the youth to ☒ ☐ ☐ have free access to the form; (b) the youth shall have the option to confidentially file Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure the grievance or to deliver the form to any youth ☒ ☐ ☐ supervision staff working in the facility; (c) resolution of the grievance at the lowest appropriate Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ staff level; (d) provision for a prompt review and initial response to Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure. grievances within three (3) business days, grievances ☒ ☐ ☐ that relate to health and safety issues must be Between January and September 2025, all addressed immediately; grievances were resolved within ten days. (1) The youth may elect to be present to explain Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure his/her version of the grievance to a person not ☒ ☐ ☐ directly involved in the circumstances which led to the grievance. (2) Provision for a staff representative approved by Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility administrator to assist the youth. (e) provision for a written response to the grievance Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ which includes the reasons for the decisions; (f) a system which provides that any appeal of a Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure grievance shall be heard by a person not directly ☒ ☐ ☐ involved in the circumstances which led to the grievance; (g) resolution of the grievance must occur within ten (10) Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure business days unless circumstances dictate a longer time frame. The youth shall be notified of any delay; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Between January and September 2025, all grievances were resolved within ten days. (h) the policy shall provide multiple internal and external Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ methods to report sexual abuse and sexual harassment. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 32 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Whether or not associated with a grievance, concerns of Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure parents, guardians, staff or other parties shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ addressed and documented in accordance with written policies and procedures within a specified timeframe. 1362 REPORTING OF INCIDENTS Policy E-108 Incident Reports A written report of all incidents which result in physical harm, use of force, serious threat of physical harm, or death of an employee, youth or other person(s) shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ maintained. Such written record shall be prepared by the staff and submitted to the facility manager by the end of the shift, unless additional time is necessary and authorized by the facility manager or designee. 1363 USE OF REASONABLE FORCE TO COLLECT The Department’s prior Policy 01-0309-28, DNA SPECIMENS, SAMPLES, IMPRESSIONS DNA Policy, was revised through Lexipol on November 21, 2022, to become Policy 320, (a) Pursuant to Penal Code Section 298.1 authorized Biological Samples (DNA). law enforcement, custodial, or corrections personnel including peace officers, may employ reasonable force to collect blood specimens, saliva samples, and thumb or palm print impressions from individuals who are required to provide such samples, specimens or ☒ ☐ ☐ impressions pursuant to Penal Code Section 296 and who refuse following written or oral request. (1) For the purpose of this section, the “use of reasonable force” shall be defined as the force that an objective, trained and competent correctional employee, faced with similar facts and circumstances, would consider necessary and reasonable to gain compliance with this section. (2) The use of reasonable force shall be preceded by Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) efforts to secure voluntary compliance. Efforts to secure voluntary compliance shall be documented ☒ ☐ ☐ and include an advisement of the legal obligation to provide the requisite specimen, sample or impression and the consequences of refusal. (b) The force shall not be used without the prior written Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) authorization of the supervising officer on duty. The authorization shall include information that reflects the ☒ ☐ ☐ fact that the offender was asked to provide the requisite specimen, sample, or impression and refused. (1) If the use of reasonable force includes a cell Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) extraction, the extraction shall be videotaped. Video shall be directed at the cell extraction event. The videotape shall be retained by the agency for the ☒ ☐ ☐ length of time required by statute. Notwithstanding the use of the video as evidence in a court proceeding, the tape shall be retained administratively. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 33 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1370 EDUCATION PROGRAM Policy J-104, School Programs (a) School Programs The Merced County Office of Education The County Board of Education shall provide for the (MCOE) operates the educational program administration and operation of juvenile court schools in for the facility. The principal and teachers are conjunction with the Chief Probation Officer, or designee committed to providing an educational pursuant to applicable State laws. The school and facility environment for youth. Youth who have administrators shall develop and implement written policy graduated from high school continue their and procedures to ensure communication and education with online enrollment through coordination between educators and probation staff. Merced College. The majority of youth in the Culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches facility are high school graduates, having should be applied when providing instruction. Education been provided with programs to connect the staff should collaborate with the facility administrator to youth to community college courses and with use technology to facilitate learning and ensure safe academic support to assist them with the technology practices. The facility administrator shall ☒ ☐ ☐ successful completion of their college degree. request an annual review of each required element of the program by the Superintendent of Schools, and a report Transition and reentry services occur for or review checklist on compliance, deficiencies, and youth as they prepare to exit the facility, corrective action needed to achieve compliance with this including meeting with representatives of the section. Such a review, when conducted, cannot be Merced County Office of Education, such as delegated to the principal or any other staff of any juvenile a Job Development Training Technician court school site. The Superintendent of Schools shall conduct this review in conjunction with a qualified outside agency or individual. Upon receipt of the review, the facility administrator or designee shall review each item with the Superintendent of Schools and shall take whatever corrective action is necessary to address each deficiency and to fully protect the educational interests of all youth in the facility. (b) Required Elements Policy J-104, School Programs The facility school program shall comply with the State Education Code and County Board of Education policies, all applicable federal education statutes and regulations and provide for an annual evaluation of the educational program offerings. As stated in the 2009 California Standards for the Teaching Profession, teachers shall ☒ ☐ ☐ establish and maintain learning environments that are physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe. Youth shall be provided a rigorous, quality educational program that responds to the different learning styles and abilities of students and prepares them for high school graduation, career entry, and post-secondary education. All youth shall be treated equally, and the education Policy J-104, School Programs program shall be free from discriminatory action. Staff ☒ ☐ ☐ shall refer to transgender, intersex and gender- Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, nonconforming youth by their preferred name and gender. Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ (1) The course of study shall comply with the State Policy J-104, School Programs Education Code and include, but not be limited to, ☒ ☐ ☐ courses required for high school graduation. (2) Information and preparation for the High School Policy J-104, School Programs Equivalency Test as approved by the California ☒ ☐ ☐ Department of Education shall be made available to eligible youth. (3) Youth shall be informed of post-secondary Policy J-104, School Programs ☒ ☐ ☐ education and vocational opportunities. (4) Administration of the High School Equivalency Policy J-104, School Programs Tests as approved by the California Department of ☒ ☐ ☐ Education, shall be made available when possible. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 34 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (5) Supplemental instruction shall be afforded to youth Policy J-104, School Programs who do not demonstrate sufficient progress towards ☒ ☐ ☐ grade level standards. (6) The minimum school day shall be consistent with Policy J-104, School Programs State Education Code Requirements for juvenile court schools. The facility administrator, in conjunction with education staff, must ensure that operational ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures do not interfere with the time afforded for the minimum instructional day. Absences, time out of class or educational instruction, both excused and unexcused, shall be documented. (7) Education shall be provided to all youth regardless Policy J-104, School Programs of classification, housing, security status, disciplinary or separation status, including room confinement, except when providing education poses an immediate ☒ ☐ ☐ threat to the safety of self or others. Education includes, but is not limited to, related services as provided in a youth’s Section 504 Plan or Individualized Education Program (IEP). (c) School Discipline Policy J-104, School Programs (1) Positive behavior management will be implemented to reduce the need for disciplinary action ☒ ☐ ☐ in the school setting and be integrated into the facility's overall behavioral management plan and security system. (2) School staff shall be advised of administrative Policy J-104, School Programs decisions made by probation staff that may affect the ☒ ☐ ☐ educational programming of students. (3) Except as otherwise provided by the State Policy J-104, School Programs Education Code, expulsion/suspension from school shall be imposed only when other means of correction fails to bring about proper conduct. School staff shall follow the appropriate due process safeguards as set ☒ ☐ ☐ forth in the State Education Code including the rights of students with special needs. School staff shall document the other means of correction used prior to imposing expulsion/ suspension if an expulsion/suspension is ultimately imposed. (4) The facility administrator, in conjunction with Policy J-104, School Programs education staff will develop policies and procedures ☒ ☐ ☐ that address the rights of any student who has continuing difficulty completing a school day. (d) Provisions for Special Populations Policy J-104, School Programs (1) State and federal laws and regulations shall be observed for all individuals with disabilities or suspected disabilities. This includes but is not limited ☒ ☐ ☐ to child find, assessment, continuum of alternative placements, manifestation determination reviews, and implementation of Section 504 Plans and Individualized Education Programs. (2) Youth identified as English Learners (EL) shall be Policy J-104, School Programs afforded an educational program that addresses their language needs pursuant to all applicable state and ☒ ☐ ☐ federal laws and regulations governing programs for EL students. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 35 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) Educational Screening and Admission Policy J-104, School Programs (1) Youth shall be interviewed after admittance and a ☒ ☐ ☐ record maintained that documents a youth's educational history, including but not limited to: (A) School progress/school history; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-104, School Programs (B) Home Language Survey and the results of the Policy J-104, School Programs ☒ ☐ ☐ State Test used for English language proficiency; (C) Needs and services of special populations as Policy J-104, School Programs defined by the State Education Code, including but ☒ ☐ ☐ not limited to, students with special needs. (D) Discipline problems. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-104, School Programs (2) Youth will be immediately enrolled in school. Policy J-104, School Programs Educational staff shall conduct an assessment to ☒ ☐ ☐ determine the youth's general academic functioning levels to enable placement in core curriculum courses. (3) After admission to the facility, a preliminary Policy J-104, School Programs education plan shall be developed for each youth ☒ ☐ ☐ within five school days. (4) Upon enrollment, education staff shall comply with Policy J-104, School Programs the State Education Code and request the youth's records from his/her prior school(s), including, but not limited to, transcripts, Individual Education Program (IEP), 504 Plan, state language assessment scores, ☒ ☐ ☐ immunization records, exit grades, and partial credits. Upon receipt of the transcripts, the youth's educational plan shall be reviewed with the youth and modified as needed. Youth should be informed of the credits they need to graduate. (f) Educational Reporting Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The complete facility educational record of the youth shall be forwarded to the next educational ☒ ☐ ☐ placement in accordance with the State Education Code. (2) The County Superintendent of Schools shall Policy J-104, School Programs provide appropriate credit (full or partial) for course ☒ ☐ ☐ work completed while in juvenile court school in accordance with the State Education Code. (g) Transition and Re-Entry Planning Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The Superintendent of Schools and the Chief Probation Officer or designee, shall develop policies and procedures to meet the transition needs of youth, ☒ ☐ ☐ including the development of an education transition plan, in accordance with the State Education Code and in alignment with Title 15, Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities, Section 1355. (h) Post-Secondary Education Opportunities Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The school and facility administrator should, whenever possible, collaborate with local post- secondary education providers to facilitate access to ☒ ☐ ☐ educational and vocational opportunities for youth that considers the use of technology to implement these programs. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 36 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1371 PROGRAMS, RECREATION, AND EXERCISE. Policy J-106, Recreation 6B The facility administrator shall develop and implement The facility has multiple programming written policies and procedures for programs, recreation, opportunities, with GEO Reentry Services and exercise for all youth. The intent is to minimize the scheduling and completing much of the amount of time youth are in their rooms or their bed area. programming in the facility for youth since 2023. Programming at the facility has also been provided by additional programs, such as the Prison Education Project and Cactus Flower, supplementing GEO. An incentive program through GEO helps to ensure that all of the partners are participating in the behavior management program for youth in the same ☒ ☐ ☐ way for consistency. The schedules on each unit articulate the programming provided to each unit each day, and each youth has the opportunity to participate in the calendared events. Programming logs were reviewed with the number of hours documented for each youth, and were in compliance, unless the youth refused to participate, which was also documented. Interviews with youth and staff confirmed the receipt of programming every day, and youth were able to describe the programming they had participated in. Juvenile facilities shall provide the opportunity for Policy J-106, Recreation programs, recreation, and exercise a minimum of three hours a day during the week and five hours a day each ☒ ☐ ☐ Saturday, Sunday or other non-school days, of which one hour shall be an outdoor activity, weather permitting. A youth’s participation in programs, recreation, and Policy J-106, Recreation exercise may be suspended only upon a written finding by the administrator/manager or designee that a youth ☒ ☐ ☐ represents a threat to the safety and security of the facility. Such program, recreation, and exercise schedule shall Policy J-106, Recreation ☒ ☐ ☐ be posted in the living units. There will be a written annual review of the programs, Policy J-106, Recreation recreation, and exercise by the responsible agency to ensure content offered is current, consistent, and A letter dated January 27, 2025, from Deputy relevant to the population. Chief Probation Officer Ben Rodriguez was provided, certifying that the annual review of ☒ ☐ ☐ programs, recreation, and exercise, which promotes social awareness and reduces recidivism, has been completed in accordance with Title 15, Section 1371. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 37 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) Programs. All youth shall be provided with the Programs available at the time of inspection opportunity for at least one hour of daily programming to include: include, but not be limited to, trauma focused, cognitive, evidence-based, best practice interventions that are • Victim Impact culturally relevant and linguistically appropriate, or pro- • Gang Intervention social interventions and activities designed to reduce • Anger Management recidivism. These programs should be based on the • Change Company youth’s individual needs as required by Sections 1355 • Life Skills and 1356. Such programs may be provided under the • Power Source direction of the Chief Probation Officer or the County • CBI Cognitive Behavioral Office of Education and can be administered by county Interventions Social Skills partners such as mental health agencies, community • Living in Balance based organizations, faith-based organizations or • Moral Reconation Therapy MRT Probation staff. • Creative Reading and Writing Programs may include but are not limited to: (1) Cognitive Behavior Interventions; (2) Management of Stress and Trauma; ☒ ☐ ☐ Interviews with youth and staff confirmed programming occurs daily by collaborative (3) Anger Management; partners such as GEO, through community- (4) Conflict Resolution; based organizations, or by facility staff. (5) Juvenile Justice System; (6) Trauma-related interventions; (7) Victim Awareness; (8) Self-Improvement; (9) Parenting Skills and support; (10) Tolerance and Diversity; (11) Healing Informed Approaches; (12) Interventions by Credible Messengers; (13) Gender Specific Programming; (14) Art, creative writing, or self-expression; (15) CPR and First Aid training; (16) Restorative Justice or Civic Engagement; (17) Career and leadership opportunities; and, (18) Other topics suitable to the youth population. (b) Recreation. All youth shall be provided the opportunity Policy J-106, Recreation for at least one hour of daily access to unscheduled activities such as leisure reading, letter writing, and Youth and staff interviewed confirmed that entertainment. Activities shall be supervised and include youth receive at least one hour, and often orientation and may include coaching of youth. ☒ ☐ ☐ more than one hour, of unstructured activities daily. Activities include reading, television, phone calls, board games, letter writing, and video games. (c) Exercise. All youth shall be provided with the J-106, Recreation, Subsection IV opportunity for at least one hour of large muscle activity each day. Youth and staff interviewed confirmed that youth receive at least one hour, and often more than one hour, of large muscle activity daily, typically outdoors unless the weather ☒ ☐ ☐ is inclement in which case it is moved indoors. Activity available to the youth includes basketball, running, and various forms of exercises such as burpees, pushups, and sit-ups. The administrator/manager may suspend, for a period not J-106, Recreation, Subsection IX to exceed 24 hours, access to recreation and programs. ☒ ☐ ☐ The administrator/manager shall document the reasons why suspension of recreation and programs occurs. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 38 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1372 RELIGIOUS PROGRAM Policy J-103, Religious Programs. The facility administrator shall provide access to religious Religious services visit the facility once a services and/or religious counseling at least once each week, or more frequently, if requested. Youth week. Attendance shall be voluntary. A youth shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ and staff confirmed that religious services are allowed to participate in an activity outside of their room if available weekly, and they are not required to he/she elects not to participate in religious programs. participate. Religious programs shall provide for: (a) opportunity for religious services and practices; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. (b) availability of clergy; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. (c) availability of religious diets. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. 1373 WORK PROGRAM Policy J-102, Work/Job Programs The facility administrator shall develop policies and procedures regarding the fair and consistent assignment of youth to work programs. Work assigned to a youth shall ☒ ☐ ☐ be meaningful, constructive and related to vocational training or increasing a youth's sense of responsibility. Work programs shall not be imposed as a disciplinary measure 1374 VISITING Policy J-101, Visiting. The facility administrator shall develop and implement Visiting is scheduled for Saturday and written policies and procedures for visiting, that include Sunday each week. provisions for special visits. Youth shall be allowed to receive visits by parents, guardians or persons standing in loco parentis, and children of youth. Other family ☒ ☐ ☐ Special Visits, such as those with supportive adults, are approved by Administration and members, such as grandparents and siblings, and are in addition to, and not a substitute for, supportive adults, may be allowed to visit with the weekly scheduled visits. approval of the facility administrator or designee, and in conjunction with the youth’s case plan or in the best interest of the youth. All visits shall occur at reasonable times, subject only to Policy J-101, Visiting. the limitations necessary to maintain order and security. Visitation shall not be denied solely based on the visitor’s criminal history. The staff shall determine in each case, whether the visitor’s criminal history represents a risk to ☒ ☐ ☐ the safety of youth or staff in the facility. Any denial of visitation or limitation on visitations shall be communicated to the youth, person denied and facility administrator. Opportunity for visitation shall be a minimum of two hours Policy J-101, Visiting. per week. Visits may be supervised, but conversations ☒ ☐ ☐ shall not be monitored unless there is a security or safety need. Provisions for special visits, in addition to the two-hour Policy J-101, Visiting. minimum and/or outside of the regular visiting hours, shall be accommodated as necessary and within the discretion of the facility administrator or designee. Family therapy ☒ ☐ ☐ and professional visits shall be accommodated outside the provisions of this regulation. Facilities may provide visitation opportunities outside of normal visiting hours to accommodate special visits. The facility may provide access to technology as an Policy J-101, Visiting. ☒ ☐ ☐ alternative, but not as a replacement, to in-person visiting. 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 39 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1375 CORRESPONDENCE Policy J-111, Correspondence The facility administrator shall develop and implement The facility does not place limitations on the written policies and procedures for correspondence which ☒ ☐ ☐ volume of mail that a youth may send or provide that: receive. (a) there is no limitation on the volume of mail that youth may send or receive; (b) youth may send two letters per week postage free; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-111, Correspondence (c) youth may correspond confidentially with state and Policy J-111, Correspondence federal courts, any member of the State Bar or holder of public office, and the Board; however, authorized facility ☒ ☐ ☐ staff may open and inspect such mail only to search for contraband and in the presence of the youth; and, (d) incoming and outgoing mail, other than that described Policy J-111, Correspondence in (c), may be read by staff only when there is reasonable ☒ ☐ ☐ cause to believe facility safety and security, public safety, or youth safety is jeopardized. 1376 TELEPHONE ACCESS Policy J-107, Use of Telephone Youth 7B The administrator of each juvenile facility shall develop The youth interviewed stated they have the and implement written policies and procedures to provide ☒ ☐ ☐ opportunity to make one, and sometimes youth with access to telephone communications. more, phone calls per day. 1377 ACCESS TO LEGAL SERVICES Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services The facility administrator shall develop written procedures to ensure the right of youth to have access to the courts ☒ ☐ ☐ and legal services. Such access shall include: (a) access, upon request by the youth, to licensed attorneys and their authorized representatives; (b) provision for confidential consultation with attorneys; Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services ☒ ☐ ☐ and, (c) unlimited postage free, legal correspondence and Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services ☒ ☐ ☐ cost-free telephone access as appropriate. 1390 DISCIPLINE Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall develop and implement The Behavior Modification System clearly written policies and procedures for the discipline of youth identifies the facility rules regarding that shall promote acceptable behavior; including the use expectations and consequences. The of positive behavior interventions and supports. Discipline procedure outlines how negative behaviors shall be imposed at the least restrictive level which can result in the loss of points and status. promotes the desired behavior and shall not include Regardless of status, youth receive all corporal punishment, group punishment, physical or required regulation components as they psychological degradation. relate to education, programming, and other Deprivation of the following is not permitted: ☒ ☐ ☐ rights for all conditions of confinement. When youth pose a threat to the safety and security of the facility, staff continue to promote reintegration with all programs and activities as soon as possible. Youth understand expected behaviors and work to promote and advance throughout the day. Sanctions remind youth of the rules, and major incidents are rare. (a) bed and bedding; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 40 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) daily shower, access to drinking fountain, toilet and Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ personal hygiene items, and clean clothing; (c) full nutrition; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (d) contact with parent or attorney; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (e) exercise; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (f) medical services and counseling; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (g) religious services; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (h) clean and sanitary living conditions; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (i) the right to send and receive mail; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (j) education; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (k) rehabilitative programming. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall establish rules of conduct Policy I-101, Discipline Process and disciplinary penalties to guide the conduct of youth. Such rules and penalties shall include both major Policy I-103, Behavior Management System. violations and minor violations, be stated simply and ☒ ☐ ☐ affirmatively, and be made available to all youth. Provision The facility has an incentive program for all shall be made to provide accessible information to youth youth in custody. with disabilities, limited English proficiency, or limited literacy. 1391 DISCIPLINE PROCESS Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall develop and implement Documentation involving the discipline written policies and procedures for the administration of process for major rule violations was discipline which shall include, but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ reviewed; youth are provided with a due (a) designation of personnel authorized to impose process hearing as required by regulation, discipline for violation of rules; which is documented and administratively reviewed by the Program Manager. (b) prohibiting discipline to be delegated to any youth; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (c) definition of major and minor rule violations and their Policy I-101, Discipline Process consequences, and due process requirements; Policy I-103, Behavior Management System. ☒ ☐ ☐ Level 1 and 2 violations are considered minor violations. Level 3 and 4 violations are major violations. (d) trauma-informed approaches and positive behavior Policy I-101, Discipline Process interventions; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-103, Behavior Management System (e) minor rule violations may be handled informally by Policy I-103, Behavior Management System counseling, advising the youth of expected conduct imposing a minor consequence. Discipline shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ accompanied by written documentation and a policy of review and appeal to a supervisor; and, 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 41 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (f) major rule violations and the discipline process shall Policy I-101, Discipline Process be documented and require the following: (1) written notice of violation prior to a hearing; A review of due process documentation was consistent with regulation requirements, the situation surrounding the rule violation(s), and the appropriate utilization of sanctions. ☒ ☐ ☐ Staff were able to articulate the nature of the violation and the appropriate consequences within the behavior management grid. Administrative staff review often resulted in a meeting with the youth regarding the sanction. (2) accommodations provided to youth with Policy I-101, Discipline Process disabilities, limited literacy, and English language ☒ ☐ ☐ learners; (3) hearing by a person who is not a party to the Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ incident; (4) opportunity for the youth to be heard, present Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ evidence and testimony; (5) provision for youth to be assisted by staff in the Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ hearing process; Policy I-101, Discipline Process (6) provision for administrative review. ☒ ☐ ☐ (g) violations that result in a removal from camp or Not applicable. commitment program, but not a return to court, will follow ☐ ☐ ☒ the due process provisions in subsection (e) above. 1410 MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES. Policy J-105, Health Services Policy D-110, Exposure to Bodily Fluids The health administrator/responsible physician, in Policy G-104, Procedures for Intoxicated cooperation with the facility administrator and the local health officer, shall develop written policies and ☒ ☐ ☐ Youth procedures to address the identification, treatment, Wellpath Global Policy and Procedure control and follow-up management of communicable Reference 71488: Communicable Disease diseases. The policies and procedures shall address, but not be limited to: Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (a) Intake health screening procedures; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (b) Identification of relevant symptoms; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (c) Referral for medical evaluation; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (d) Treatment responsibilities during detention; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 42 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control (e) Coordination with public and private community- ☒ ☐ ☐ based resources for follow-up treatment; Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 6.5 Discharge Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (f) Applicable reporting requirements; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 6.4.1 Reporting Wellpath Global Policy and Procedure (g) Strategies for handling disease outbreaks. ☒ ☐ ☐ Reference 71488: Communicable Disease The policies and procedures shall be updated as Per Wellpath Health Services Administrator necessary to reflect communicable disease priorities Mee Hao, the agency updates policies and identified by the local health officer and currently ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures as needed to ensure the recommended public health interventions. protection of the youth and staff/agency partners. 1433 REQUESTS FOR HEALTH CARE SERVICES Policy J-105, Health Services The health administrator, in cooperation with the facility While medical and behavioral request forms administrator, shall develop policy and procedures to were identified in their locations on every unit, establish a daily routine for youth to convey requests for the youth interviewed indicated that they emergency and non-emergency medical, dental and typically just told staff, and staff then behavioral/mental health care services. contacted medical or behavioral health services for them via telephone or radio. ☒ ☐ ☐ However, the forms are present and do allow the youth to make their request confidential, should they wish to do so. Interviews with Medical and Behavioral Health Services confirmed both the opportunity for confidentiality and the option for youth to request services via staff request. 1480 STANDARD FACILITY CLOTHING ISSUE Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange The youth’s personal clothing, undergarments and footwear may be substituted for the institutional clothing ☒ ☐ ☐ and footwear specified in this regulation. The facility has the primary responsibility to provide clothing and footwear. Clothing provisions shall ensure that: (a) Clothing is clean, reasonably fitted, durable, easily Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange laundered, in good repair, and free of holes and tears. The clothing worn by the youth was observed during interviews to be in good repair, free of stains, and appropriately ☒ ☐ ☐ sized. The youth interviewed stated that should they need new underwear, clothing, or shoes, they would ask staff, and they would receive the items in compliance with this section. (b) The standard issue of climatically suitable clothing Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange for youth shall consist of but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ (1) Socks and serviceable footwear; (2) Outer garments; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange (3) New non-disposable underwear which shall Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ remain with the youth throughout their stay, and; 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 43 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (4) Undergarments, that are freshly laundered and Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ free of stains, including tee shirts and bras. (c) Clothing is laundered at the temperature required by Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange local ordinances for the commercial laundries and dried ☒ ☐ ☐ completely in a mechanical dryer or other laundry method approved by the local health officer. (d) Suitable clothing is issued to pregnant youth. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange 1482 CLOTHING EXCHANGE Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange The facility administrator shall develop and implement Interviews with the youth confirmed they written policies and site-specific procedures for the receive laundered clothing daily. cleaning and scheduled exchange of clothing. Unless work, climatic conditions, or illness necessitates more ☒ ☐ ☐ frequent exchange, outer garments, except for footwear, shall be exchanged at least once each week. Tee shirts, bras, and underwear shall be exchanged daily; youth shall receive their own underwear back at exchange. 1484 CONTROL OF VERMIN IN YOUTH’S Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange PERSONAL CLOTHING There shall be written policies and site-specific procedures developed and implemented by the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ administrator to control the contamination and/or spread of vermin and ecto-parasites in all youth’s personal clothing. Infested clothing shall be cleaned or stored in a closed container so as to eradicate or stop the spread of the vermin. 1485 ISSUE OF PERSONAL CARE ITEMS Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene There shall be written policies and site-specific Interviews with the youth confirm they are procedures developed and implemented by the facility receiving all indicated personal care items. administrator for the availability of personal hygiene ☒ ☐ ☐ items. Each female youth shall be provided with sanitary napkins, panty liners and tampons as requested. Each youth to be held over 24 hours shall be provided with the following personal care items; (a) Toothbrush; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (b) Toothpaste; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (c) Soap; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (d) Comb; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (e) Shaving implements; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (f) Deodorant; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (g) Lotion; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (h) Shampoo; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (i) Post-shower conditioning hair products. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 44 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Youth shall not be required to share any personal care Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene items listed in items (a) through (d). Liquid soap provided through a common dispenser is permitted. Youth shall not share disposable razors. Double edged safety razors, electric razors, and other shaving instruments ☒ ☐ ☐ capable of breaking the skin, when shared among youth, shall be disinfected between individual uses by the method prescribed by the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology in Sections 979 and 980, Chapter 9, Title 16, California Code of Regulations. 1486 PERSONAL HYGIENE Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene There shall be written policies and site specific procedures developed and implemented by the facility administrator for showering/bathing and brushing of ☒ ☐ ☐ teeth. Youth shall be permitted to shower/bathe up on assignment to a housing unit and on a daily basis thereafter and given an opportunity to brush their teeth after each meal. 1487 SHAVING Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Youth shall have access to a razor daily, unless their Interviews with the youth confirmed that they appearance must be maintained for reasons of are offered the opportunity to shave every identification in Court. All youth shall have equal ☒ ☐ ☐ day. opportunity to shave face and body hair. The facility administrator may suspend this requirement in relation to youth who are considered to be a danger to themselves or others. 1488 HAIR CARE SERVICES Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Hair care services shall be available in all juvenile facilities. Youth shall receive hair care services monthly. ☒ ☐ ☐ Equipment shall be cleaned and disinfected after each Interviews with the youth and staff confirmed haircut or procedure, by a method approved by the State that a barber visits the facility once a week Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. and provides haircuts as requested. 1500 STANDARD BEDDING AND LINEN ISSUE Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen Clean laundered, suitable bedding and linens, in good repair, shall be provided for each youth entering a living Interviews with youth confirm they receive area who is expected to remain overnight, shall include, ☒ ☐ ☐ clean linen, including their blankets, each but not be limited to: week. Additionally, they can receive clean linen or blankets if needed before exchange day. (a) One mattress or mattress-pillow combination which Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen meets the requirements of Section 1502 of these ☒ ☐ ☐ regulations; (b) One pillow and a pillow case unless provided for in Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen ☒ ☐ ☐ (a) above; (c) One mattress cover and a sheet or two sheets; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen (d) One towel; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen (e) One blanket or more, up on request ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 45 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1501 BEDDING LINEN EXCHANGE Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen The facility administrator shall develop and implement Interviews with youth confirm they are site specific written policies and procedures for the exchanging linen, including their blankets, scheduled exchange of laundered bedding and linen ☒ ☐ ☐ each week. They can receive clean linen or issued to each youth housed. Washable items such as blankets if needed before exchange day. sheets, mattress covers, pillow cases and towels shall be exchanged for clean replacement at least once each week. The covering blanket shall be cleaned or laundered once Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen ☒ ☐ ☐ a month. 1510 FACILITY SANITATION, SAFETY AND Policy G-119, Facility Sanitation, MAINTENANCE Maintenance, and Safety. The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and site-specific procedures for the maintenance of an acceptable level of cleanliness, repair and safety throughout the facility. The plan shall provide for a regular schedule of housekeeping tasks, ☒ ☐ ☐ equipment, including restraint devices, and physical plant maintenance and inspections to identify and correct unsanitary or unsafe conditions or work practices in a timely manner. The use of chemicals shall be done in accordance to the product label and Safety Data Sheet which may include the use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 46 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 REVIEW OF NON-REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS GRANT FUNDING OR CODE REFERENCE YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE - COMMENTS JUVENILE PROBATION AND CAMPS FUNDING (JPCF) (Camps Only) The programs/services identified on the JPCF Camp Not applicable. Eligibility Form are being provided at the facility. (Refer ☐ ☐ ☒ to the JPCF Camp Eligibility Form) 7327 Merced IGJJCC JH CI PRO 25-26 Page 47 of 47 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 JUVENILE HALLS, SPECIAL PURPOSE JUVENILE HALLS AND CAMPS Board of State and Community Corrections PROCEDURES CHECKLIST1 BSCC Code: 7328 FACILITY NAME: Merced Secure Youth Treatment Facility (SYTF) FACILITY TYPE: SYTF PERSON(S) INTERVIEWED: Ben Rodriguez, Deputy Chief Probation Officer; Jennifer Medeiros, Division Manager; Supervising Juvenile Institutions Officer Lavizzi; Juvenile Institutions Officer III Jamison; Juvenile Institutions Officer II Chavez; Deputy Probation Officer Munoz; Mee Hao, Wellpath Health Service Administrator; Adriana Garcia, Program Manager, Geo Re-entry Services; Kristen Concepcion, Principal, Merced County Office of Education (MCOE); Christian Quirarte, Job Development Training Technician, Merced County Office of Education (MCOE); Cameia Richardson, Associate Clinical Social Worker, Wellpath Behavioral Health; Seng Yang, Associate Clinical Social Worker, Wellpath Behavioral Health; male and female youth, ages 14 to 20. FIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Eric Raley DATE: October 20, 2025, to October 23, 2025 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1313 COUNTY INSPECTION AND EVALUATION OF Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph A. 9B BUILDING AND GROUNDS The following local inspection reports are for On an annual basis, or as otherwise required by law, each the Iris Garret Juvenile Justice Correctional juvenile facility administrator shall obtain a documented Complex (IGJJCC), which includes the inspection and evaluation from the following: Juvenile Hall, the Bear Creek Academy ☒ Camp, and the SYTF Program. ☐ ☐ Issued by Merced County Community & Economic Development, Building and Safety (a) county building inspector or person designated by the Division, Charles Mendenhall, Inspection Board of Supervisors to approve building safety; Supervisor, on May 19, 2025 (b) fire authority having jurisdiction, including fire Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph B. 10B clearance as required by Health and Safety Code Section 13146.1(a) and (b); Inspected by Merced County Fire ☒ Department in cooperation with Cal Fire, ☐ ☐ inspected by FAE Morgan Alexander on August 15, 2025 1 This document is intended for use as a tool during the inspection process; this worksheet may not contain each Title 15 regulation that is required. Additionally, many regulations on this worksheet are SUMMARIES of the regulation; the text on this worksheet may not contain the entire text of the actual regulation. Please refer to the complete California Code of Regulations, Title 15, Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 5 for the complete list and text of regulations. 2 Excerpts from facility policies, procedures, or other reference documents are indicated in italicized text. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 1 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) local health officer, inspection in accordance with Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph C. 11B Health and Safety Code Section 101045; Merced County Community & Economic Development Department Division of Environmental Health Evaluated on March 26, 2025, by Lao Yang, Environmental Health Specialist III, and Taylor Rios, Environmental Health Specialist II. No deficiencies noted. Nutritional Health Evaluation evaluated by Michael Helwig, Registered Dietitian, on March 28, 2025. Deficiencies were noted and resolved the same day, per DCPO Ben ☒ Rodriguez. ☐ ☐ Medical Evaluation – evaluated by April Brewer, Supervising PHN, Linda Smith, Director of Nursing, and Ignacio Santana, Assistant Health Officer, on March 26, 2025. Upon reviewing the evaluation, all sections were marked either yes (in compliance) or n/a. Mental Health was evaluated by Leticia Servin, BHRS Program Manager, and Alma Avila, BHRS Program Manager, on March 26, 2025; no deficiencies were noted. (d) county superintendent of schools on the adequacy of Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph D. 12B educational services and facilities as required in Section 1370; ☒ Education Program Evaluation conducted by ☐ ☐ Kelli Sharpe, Program Administrator, on February 14, 2025. No deficiencies noted. (e) juvenile court as required by Section 209 of the Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph E. 13B Welfare and Institutions Code; and, Judicial Inspection conducted by the ☒ ☐ ☐ Honorable Paul C. Lo, Presiding Judge, on December 17, 2024. (f) the Juvenile Justice Commission as required by Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph F. 14B Section 229 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Probation Commission as required by Section 240 of the JJDPC Inspectors Jermaine Paster, Katalina Welfare and Institutions Code. ☒ Zambrano, Joseph Hoffar, and Jacqueline ☐ ☐ Yanez inspected the facility on December 6, 2024, and December 7, 2024, and determined the facility was in compliance. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 2 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1320 APPOINTMENT AND QUALIFICATIONS 15B Policy D-101 Note: Compliance with this section is determined by receipt of the Chief Probation Officer’s certification letter The elements of this regulation are confirming that all elements of regulation are met. addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on (a) Appointment January 27, 2025. In each juvenile facility there shall be a superintendent, ☒ ☐ ☐ director or facility manager in charge of its program and employees. Such superintendent, director, facility Policy D-101, Subsection II. manager and other employees of the facility shall be appointed by the facility administrator pursuant to Deputy Chief Probation Officer Ben applicable provisions of law. Rodriguez has been appointed as the Facility Superintendent. (b) Employee Qualifications Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph D. Each facility shall: (1) recruit and hire employees who possess ☒ knowledge, skills and abilities appropriate to their job ☐ ☐ classification and duties in accordance with applicable civil service or merit system rules; (2) require a medical evaluation and physical Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph C examination including tuberculosis screening test and evaluation for immunity to contagious illnesses of ☒ ☐ ☐ childhood (i.e., diphtheria, rubeola, rubella, and mumps); (3) adhere to the minimum standards for the selection Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph A and training requirements adopted by the Board ☒ ☐ ☐ pursuant to Section 6035 of the Penal Code; and (4) conduct a criminal records review, on each new Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph B employee, and psychological examination in ☒ accordance with Section 1031 of the Government ☐ ☐ Code. (c) Contract personnel, volunteers, and other non- Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph F employees of the facility, who may be present at the facility, shall have such clearance and qualifications as ☒ may be required by law, and their presence at the facility ☐ ☐ shall be subject to the approval and control of the facility manager. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 3 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1321 STAFFING Policy D-102 Each juvenile facility shall: At the time of inspection, the Iris Garrett (a) have an adequate number of personnel sufficient to Juvenile Justice Correctional Complex, carry out the overall facility operation and its which includes the Juvenile Hall, the Camp, programming, to provide for safety and security of youth and the SYTF, were budgeted for seven and staff, and meet established standards and Supervising Juvenile Institution Officers regulations; (SJIO) and 44 JIO I/II/III Youth Supervision Staff. Because sworn staff are working throughout the facility, there is no delineation between the sworn staff for SYTF separate from the sworn staff for Juvenile Hall or Camp. At the time of inspection, there were nine vacancies in the JIO I/II/III series. The JIO ☒ shift patterns include 10- and 12-hour ☐ ☐ rotations, with additional coverage from six DPOs assigned to the facility in a hybrid role, as well as voluntary overtime offered to other sworn staff. This staffing level allows for youth supervision staff to concentrate on safety and security and complete their day- to-day responsibilities. Interviews were conducted with facility staff and youth to assess whether staffing levels were sufficient to carry out facility operations and meet required programming standards. Based on observations and interviews, the facility is in compliance with this requirement. (b) ensure that no required services shall be denied Policy D-102 because of insufficient numbers of staff on duty absent ☒ ☐ ☐ exigent circumstances; (c) have a sufficient number of supervisory level staff to Policy D-102, paragraph II ensure adequate supervision of all staff members; The correctional complex, as a whole, has seven budgeted Supervising Juvenile ☒ ☐ ☐ Institution Officer positions, at least one of whom is always present and has oversight of all of types of youth in custody. (d) have a clearly identified person on duty at all times Policy D-102, paragraph III who is responsible for operations and activities and has ☒ completed the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course ☐ ☐ and PC 832 training; (e) have at least one staff member present on each living Policy D-102, paragraph IV ☒ unit whenever there are youth in the living unit; ☐ ☐ (f) have sufficient food service personnel relative to the Food services are provided by Aramark via number and security of living units, including staff qualified the Merced County Jail, located next to the and available to: plan menus meeting nutritional facility. requirements of youth; provide kitchen supervision; direct ☒ ☐ food preparation and servings; conduct related training ☐ programs for culinary staff; and maintain necessary records; or, a facility may serve food that meets nutritional standards prepared by an outside source; 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 4 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (g) have sufficient administrative, clerical, recreational, Policy D-102, paragraph IX medical, dental, mental health, building maintenance, transportation, control room, facility security and other In addition to staff assigned to the housing support staff for the efficient management of the facility, units, the facility provides an appropriate and to ensure that youth supervision staff shall not be number of staff to operate the control room, diverted from supervising youth; and, intake, and other functions. ☒ ☐ ☐ Medical services are provided 24 hours a day, and behavioral health services are provided by Wellpath Monday through Friday, with additional coverage available via on-call. (h) assign sufficient youth supervision staff to provide Policy D-102, paragraph VI continuous wide awake supervision of youth, subject to temporary variations in staff assignments to meet special ☒ ☐ ☐ program needs. Staffing shall be in compliance with a minimum youth-staff ratio for the following facility types: (1) Juvenile Halls Policy D-102, paragraph VI, A (A) during the hours that youth are awake, one wide-awake youth supervision staff member on duty for each 10 youth in detention; ☒ ☐ The average daily population in the Secure ☐ Youth Treatment Facility was five youth. All SYTF youth were male. (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their Policy D-102, paragraph VII, A room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ ☐ youth in detention; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff Policy D-102, paragraph VII, B members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in detention, unless an ☒ arrangement has been made for backup support ☐ ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; and, (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on Policy D-102, paragraph VIII duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility. (E) personnel with primary responsibility for other Policy D-102, paragraph IX duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☒ ☐ ☐ kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. (2) Special Purpose Juvenile Halls Not Applicable (A) during hours that youth are awake, one wide- ☒ awake youth supervision staff member on duty for ☐ ☐ each 10 youth in detention; (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ ☐ youth in detention; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in detention, unless an ☒ arrangement has been made for backup support ☐ ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; and, 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 5 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility. (E) personnel with primary responsibility for other duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☒ ☐ ☐ kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. (3) Camps (A) during the hours that youth are awake, one Not applicable. ☐ ☒ wide-awake youth supervision staff member on ☐ duty for each 15 youth in the camp population; (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☐ ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ youth present in the facility; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in residence, unless ☐ ☒ arrangements have been made for backup support ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☐ ☒ ☐ the facility; (E) in addition to the minimum staff to youth ratio required in (h)(3)(A)-(B), consideration shall be given to the size, design, and location of the camp; types of youth committed to the camp; and the ☐ ☒ ☐ function of the camp in determining the level of supervision necessary to maintain the safety and welfare of youth and staff; (F) personnel with primary responsibility for other duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☐ ☒ ☐ farm, forestry, kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 6 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1322 YOUTH SUPERVISION STAFF ORIENTATION Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and AND TRAINING Training. (a) Prior to assuming any responsibilities each youth The elements of this regulation are supervision staff member shall be properly oriented to addressed in a memorandum completed by their duties, including: Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on (1) youth supervision duties; January 27, 2025. All full-time youth supervision staff are required to complete training, including the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course, in compliance with BSCC Standards and Training for Corrections. Prior to assuming any responsibilities, each youth supervision staff member will receive at least 160 hours ☒ ☐ ☐ of training on a variety of topics. Supervisors will complete an 80-hour Standards and Training for Corrections approved Supervision Course, and Managers will complete an 80-hour Standards and Training for Corrections approved Management Course. The Standards and Training for Corrections (STC) memorandum from BSCC, provided to Chief Probation Officer Henn and dated September 18th, 2025, stated the agency is in compliance with training requirements. Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (2) scope of decisions they shall make; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (3) the identity of their supervisor; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (4) the identity of persons who are responsible to Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and them; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (5) persons to contact for decisions that are beyond Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and their responsibility; and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (6) ethical responsibilities. Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 7 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) Prior to assuming any responsibility for the supervision Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and of youth, each youth supervision staff member shall Training receive a minimum of 40 hours of facility-specific orientation, including: The elements of this regulation are (1) individual and group supervision techniques; addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. ☒ ☐ ☐ The policy requires at least 160 hours of facility-specific training. Mandated Training is specified according to classification. The curriculum provides standards in a format that allows new officers to understand the expectations and responsibilities of their job. (2) regulations and policies relating to discipline and Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and rights of youth pursuant to law and the provisions of ☒ Training ☐ ☐ this chapter; Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (3) basic health, sanitation and safety measures; ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (4) suicide prevention and response to suicide Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ attempts ☐ ☐ Training (5) policies regarding use of force, de-escalation Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and techniques, chemical agents, mechanical and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ physical restraints; (6) review of policies and procedures referencing Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ trauma and trauma-informed approaches; ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (7) procedures to follow in the event of emergencies; ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (8) routine security measures, including facility Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ perimeter and grounds; ☐ ☐ Training (9) crisis intervention and mental health referrals to Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ mental health services; ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (10) documentation; and ☒ ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (11) fire/life safety training ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (c) Prior to assuming sole supervision of youth, each Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and youth supervision staff member shall successfully Training complete the requirements of the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course pursuant to Penal Code Section The elements of this regulation are ☒ 6035. ☐ ☐ addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. (d) Prior to exercising the powers of a peace officer youth Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and supervision staff shall successfully complete training Training pursuant to Section 830 et seq. of the Penal Code. The elements of this regulation are ☒ ☐ ☐ addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 8 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1323 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY Policy D-102, Staffing, Subsection X Whenever there is a youth in a juvenile facility, there shall be at least one wide awake person on duty at all times ☒ ☐ ☐ who meets the training standards established by the Board for general fire and life safety which relate specifically to the facility. 1324 POLICY AND PROCEDURES MANUAL Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual All facility administrators shall develop, publish, and The department continues its transition to implement a manual of written policies and procedures Lexipol for its policies and procedures; an that address, at a minimum, all regulations that are estimated date for the completion of this applicable to the facility. Such a manual shall be made process has not been provided. available to all employees, reviewed by all employees, ☒ ☐ ☐ and shall be administratively reviewed at a minimum every two years, and updated, as necessary. Those records relating to the standards and requirements set forth in these regulations shall be accessible to the Board on request. The manual shall include: (a) table of organization, including channels of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ communications and a description of job classifications; ☐ ☐ (b) responsibility of the probation department, purpose of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual programs, relationship to the juvenile court, the Juvenile Justice/Delinquency Prevention Commission or ☒ Probation Committee, probation staff, school personnel ☐ ☐ and other agencies that are involved in juvenile facility programs; (c) responsibilities of all employees; Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ ☐ ☐ (d) initial orientation and training program for employees; Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ ☐ ☐ (e) initial orientation, including safety and security issues Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual and anti-discrimination policies, for support staff, contract ☒ employees, school, mental/behavioral health and medical ☐ ☐ staff, program providers and volunteers; (f) maintenance of record-keeping, statistics and Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual communication system to ensure: ☒ ☐ ☐ (1) efficient operation of the juvenile facility; (2) legal and proper care of youth; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (3) maintenance of individual youth's records; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (4) supply of information to the juvenile court and Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ those authorized by the court or by the law; and, ☐ ☐ (5) release of information regarding youth. ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (g) ethical responsibilities; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (h) trauma-informed approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (i) culturally responsive approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (j) gender responsive approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 9 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (k) a non-discrimination provision that provides that all Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual youth within the facility shall have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and provides that no person shall be subject to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, ☒ ☐ ☐ national origin, immigration status, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, mental or physical disability, or HIV status, including restrictive housing or classification decisions based solely on any of the above mentioned categories; (l) storage and maintenance requirements for any Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual chemical agents related security devices, and weapons ☒ ☐ ☐ and ammunition, where applicable; (m) establishment of procedures for collection of Medi- Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual Cal eligibility information and enrollment of eligible youth; and, ☒ Policy J-112, Medi-Cal Eligibility and ☐ ☐ Suspension of Benefits (n) establishment of a policy that prohibits all forms of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual sexual abuse, sexual assault and sexual harassment. The policy shall include an approach to preventing, detecting and responding to such conduct and any ☒ ☐ ☐ retaliation for reporting such conduct, as well as a provision for reporting such conduct by youth, staff or a third party. 1325 FIRE SAFETY PLAN Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan The facility administrator shall consult with the local fire department having jurisdiction over the facility, or with the State Fire Marshal, in developing a plan for fire safety ☒ ☐ ☐ which shall include, but not be limited to: (a) a fire prevention plan to be included as part of the manual of policy and procedures; (b) monthly fire and life safety inspections by facility staff Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan; records were with two-year retention of the inspection record; ☒ provided demonstrating compliance with the ☐ ☐ regulation. (c) fire prevention inspections as required by Health and Refer to Section 1313, Subsection (b), Local ☒ Safety Code Section 13146.1(a) and (b); ☐ ☐ County Inspections (d) an evacuation plan; Policy H-101, Emergency Procedures for ☒ ☐ ☐ Evacuation (e) documented fire drills not less than quarterly; Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan, Fire and Evacuation Drills records provided ☒ for review; these were typically completed ☐ ☐ monthly, exceeding compliance with this regulation. (f) a written plan for the emergency housing of youth in Policy H-101, Emergency Procedures for ☒ the case of fire; and, ☐ ☐ Evacuation (g) development of a fire suppression pre-plan in Policy H-117, Fire Suppression Pre-Plan ☒ cooperation with the local fire department. ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 10 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1326 SECURITY REVIEW Policy F-101 Key Control Policy F-102 Security Issues Each facility administrator shall develop policies and Policy F-103 Security Electronics procedures to annually review, evaluate, and document Policy H-118 Review of Emergency security of the facility. The review and evaluation shall Procedures include internal and external security, including, but not ☒ limited to, key control, equipment, and staff training. ☐ ☐ A letter confirming the review and evaluation of internal and external security as required by this section was completed by DCPO Ben Rodriguez on January 27, 2025. 1327 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Policy H-102, Emergency Procedures and 0B Communication Codes The facility administrator shall develop facility-specific policies and procedures for emergencies that shall A memo confirming the review of emergency include, but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures as required by this section was (a) escape, disturbances, and the taking of hostages; completed by DCPO Ben Rodriguez on January 27, 2025. (b) civil disturbance, active shooter and terrorist attack; ☒ Policy H-102 ☐ ☐ (c) fire and natural disasters; ☒ Policy H-101 ☐ ☐ Policy H-107 (d) periodic testing of emergency equipment; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-111 (e) emergency evacuation of the facility; and ☒ Policy H-101 ☐ ☐ (f) a program to provide all youth supervision staff with Policy H-118 ☒ an annual review of emergency procedures. ☐ ☐ 1328 SAFETY CHECKS Policy G-118, Safety Checks 1B The facility administrator shall develop and implement A random review of room safety check policy and procedures that provide for direct visual audits for each month between January and observation of youth at a minimum of every 15 minutes, September 2025 determined that the at random or varied intervals during hours when youth majority of safety checks were varied are asleep or when youth are in their rooms, confined in holding cells or confined to their bed in a dormitory. ☒ ☐ ☐ between ten minutes and thirteen minutes. Of the safety checks reviewed, camera Supervision is not replaced, but may be supplemented audits identified one late check, which was by, an audio/visual electronic surveillance system addressed with staff, and the staff was designed to detect overt, aggressive or assaultive remediated. behavior and to summon aid in emergencies. All safety checks shall be documented with the actual time the check is completed. 1329 SUICIDE PREVENTION PLAN G-109 Suicide Identification Program 2B The facility administrator, in collaboration with the As of the date of inspection, the SYTF healthcare and behavioral/mental health administrators, section of the facility had zero youth who shall plan and implement written policies and procedures had been on suicide prevention plans which delineate a Suicide Prevention Plan. The plan ☒ ☐ ☐ between January 2025 and September shall consider the needs of youth experiencing past or 2025. current trauma. Suicide prevention responses shall be respectful and in the least invasive manner consistent with the level of suicide risk. The plan shall include the following elements: 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 11 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) Suicide prevention training as required in Section Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program 1322, Youth Supervision Staff Orientation, and Training and the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course. Per the Individual Training Plan, youth ☒ ☐ ☐ supervision staff attend training annually on suicide prevention. (b) Screening, Identification Assessment and Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program Precautionary Protocols (1) All youth shall be screened for risk of suicide at The facility uses the MAYSI-2 Instrument to ☒ intake and as needed during detention. ☐ ☐ assess the risk of suicide for all youth at admission. (2) All youth supervision staff who perform intake Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program processes shall be trained in screening youth for risk ☒ ☐ ☐ of suicide. (3) All youth who have been identified during the Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program intake screening process to be at risk of suicide shall ☒ be referred to behavioral/mental health staff for a ☐ ☐ suicide risk assessment. (4) Precautionary protocols shall be developed to Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ensure the youth’s safety pending the ☒ ☐ ☐ behavioral/mental health assessment. (c) Referral process to behavioral/mental health staff for Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ assessment and/or services. ☐ ☐ (d) Procedures for monitoring of youth identified at risk Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ for suicide. ☐ ☐ (e) Safety Interventions Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) Procedures to address intervention protocols for youth identified at risk for suicide which may ☒ ☐ ☐ include, but are not limited to: (A) Housing consideration (B) Treatment strategies including trauma- Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ informed approaches ☐ ☐ (2) Procedures to instruct youth supervision staff how Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ to respond to youth who exhibit suicidal behaviors. ☐ ☐ (f) Communication Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) The intake process shall include communication with the arresting officer and family guardians ☒ ☐ ☐ regarding the youth’s past or present suicidal ideations, behaviors or attempts. (2) Procedures for clear and current information Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program sharing about youth at risk for suicide with youth ☒ supervision, healthcare, and behavioral/mental ☐ ☐ health staff. (g) Debriefing of Critical Incidents Related to Suicides or Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program Attempts (1) Process for administrative review of the ☒ ☐ ☐ circumstances and responses proceeding, during and after the critical incident. (2) Process for a debriefing event with affected staff. ☒ Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☐ ☐ (3) Process for a debriefing event with affected youth. ☒ Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 12 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (h) Documentation Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) Documentation processes shall be developed to ☒ ☐ ☐ ensure compliance with this regulation Youth identified at risk for suicide shall not be denied the Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program opportunity to participate in facility programs, services and activities which are available to other non-suicidal youth, unless deemed necessary for the safety of the ☒ youth or security of the facility. Any deprivation of ☐ ☐ programs, services or activities for youth at risk of suicide shall be documented and approved by the facility manager. 1340 REPORTING OF LEGAL ACTIONS No legal actions have been submitted to the Board during this inspection period. Each facility shall submit to the Board a letter of notification on each legal action, pertaining to conditions ☒ ☐ ☐ of confinement, filed against persons or legal entities responsible for juvenile facility operation. 1341 DEATH AND SERIOUS ILLNESS OR INJURY Policy H-108, Death of a Youth OF A YOUTH WHILE DETAINED (1) Death of a Youth. (a) The facility administrator, in cooperation with the health administrator and the behavioral/mental health director, shall develop written policies and ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures in the event of the death of a youth while detained, which include notifications to necessary parties, which may include the Juvenile Court, the parent, guardian or person standing in loco parentis and the youth’s attorney of record. (b) The health administrator, in cooperation with the Policy H-108, Death of a Youth facility administrator, shall develop written policies and procedures to assure there is a medical and operational review of every in-custody death of a youth. The review team shall include the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ administrator and/or facility manager, the health administrator, the responsible physician and other health care and supervision staff who are relevant to the incident. (c) The administrator of the facility shall provide to Policy H-108, Death of a Youth the Board a copy of the report submitted to the Attorney General under Government Code Section There have been no reports of deaths of any ☒ 12525. A copy of the report shall be submitted to the ☐ ☐ youths while detained, provided to the Board Board within 10 calendar days after the death. in this inspection period. (d) Upon receipt of a report of the death of a youth Policy H-108, Death of a Youth from the administrator, the Board may within 30 calendar days inspect and evaluate the juvenile facility, jail, lockup or court holding facility pursuant to ☒ ☐ ☐ the provisions of this subchapter. Any inquiry made by the Board shall be limited to the standards and requirements set forth in these regulations. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 13 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (2) Serious Illness or Injury of Youth. Policy H-103, Medical Emergencies (a) The facility administrator, in cooperation with the health administrator, shall develop written policies and procedures for the notification to necessary ☒ parties, which may include the Juvenile Court, the ☐ ☐ parent, guardian or person standing in loco parentis and the youth’s attorney of record in the case of a serious illness or injury of a youth. 1342 POPULATION ACCOUNTING The facility reports the required population 8B and profile statistics to BSCC. Each juvenile facility shall submit required population and profile survey reports to the Board within 10 working ☒ ☐ ☐ days after the end of each reporting period, in a format to be provided by the Board. 1343 JUVENILE FACILITY CAPACITY (EXCERPT) Policy E-401, Facility Capacity When the number of youth detained in a living unit of a juvenile facility exceeds its rated capacity for more than ☒ ☐ ☐ fifteen (15) calendar days in a month, the facility administrator shall provide a crowding report to the Board in a format provided by the Board. 1350 ADMITTANCE PROCEDURES Policy G-103, Admission Procedures The facility administrator shall develop and implement Assessments and screenings of the youth are written policies and procedures for admittance of youth completed when admitted to the Juvenile Hall that emphasize respectful and humane engagement portion of the facility; however, should an with youth and reflect that the admission process may SYTF youth enter the facility from another be traumatic to youth who may have already location, such as another county, the same experienced trauma. Policies shall be trauma-informed, screening tools would apply. These include culturally relevant, and responsive to the language and an Intake screening form, which identifies literacy needs of youth. In addition to the requirements medical and mental health information; the of Sections 1324 and 1430 of these regulations: MAYSI-2, which focuses on community risk factors, including drug and alcohol use, ☒ anger, depression, and medical criteria and ☐ ☐ suicidal behaviors; the DRAI 2.0, which is the Detention Risk Assessment Instrument, a PREA advisement and a Wellpath Behavioral Health receiving screening. Intake staff receive training on engaging with youth during the admission process, understanding trauma-informed practices, and using the information obtained to determine unit classification. (a) the admittance process shall include: Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (1) Access to two free phone calls within one hour of ☒ admittance in accordance with the provisions of ☐ ☐ Welfare and Institution Code Section 627; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (2) Offer of a shower; ☒ Youth interviewed by BSCC staff affirmed ☐ ☐ being offered a shower upon admission. (3) Documented secure storage of personal Policy G-103, Admission Procedures ☒ belongings; ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 14 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Policy G-115, Food Service (4) Offer of food upon arrival; ☒ Youth interviewed by BSCC staff affirmed ☐ ☐ being offered food upon admission. (5) Screening for physical and behavioral health and Policy G-103, Admission safety issues, intellectual or developmental ☒ ☐ ☐ disabilities; (6) Screening for physical and developmental Policy G-103, Admission disabilities in accordance with Sections 1329, 1413, ☒ ☐ ☐ and 1430 of these regulations; (7) Contact with Regional Center for the Policy G-103, Admission, Subsection VI; the Developmentally Disabled for youth that are medical provider will contact the Regional suspected of or identified as having a ☒ Center. ☐ ☐ developmental disability, pursuant to Section 1413; and, (8) Procedures consistent with Section 1352.5. ☒ Policy G-103, Admission ☐ ☐ (b) juvenile hall administrators shall establish written Policy A-104, Legal Basis for Custody criteria for detention that considers the least restrictive environment. Policy G-101, Youth Reception ☒ Policy G-102 Youth Ineligible for Admission ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission (c) juvenile camps and post-dispositional programs in Policy A-104, Legal Basis for Custody, juvenile halls shall develop policies and procedures that Subsection II, Bear Creek Academy (BCA) advise the youth of the estimated length of stay, inform Short Term Program, Subsection III, Bear them of program guidelines and provide written Creek Academy Long Term/Youth Treatment screening criteria for inclusion and exclusion from the ☒ Program, IV Secure Youth Treatment ☐ ☐ program. Program Policy G-103, Subsection X (d) juvenile halls shall develop policies and procedures These procedures are incorporated in Policy that advise any committed youth of the estimated length I-04, Bear Creek Academy (BCA) Programs, of his/her stay. ☒ and are addressed in Policy J-114, Secure ☐ ☐ Youth Treatment Program, for SYTF youth as well. 1350.5 SCREENING FOR THE RISK OF SEXUAL Policy G-103, Admission Procedures ABUSE Policy E-109, PREA The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures to reduce the risk of ☒ ☐ ☐ sexual abuse by or upon youth. The policy shall require facility staff to assess each youth within 72 hours of admission based on the following information: (a) Prior sexual victimization or abusiveness; (b) Gender nonconforming appearance or manner; or Policy G-103, Admission Procedures identification as lesbian, gay or bisexual, transgender, ☒ queer or intersex, and whether the youth may, therefore, ☐ ☐ be vulnerable to sexual abuse; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (c) Current charges and offense history; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (d) Age; ☒ ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 15 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (e) Level of emotional and cognitive development; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (f) Physical size and stature; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (g) Mental illness or mental disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (h) Intellectual or developmental disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (i) Physical disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (j) The youth’s perception of vulnerability; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ (k) Any other specific information about the individual Policy G-103, Admission Procedures youth that may indicate heightened needs for ☒ supervision, additional safety precautions, or separation ☐ ☐ from certain other youth. Staff shall ascertain this information through Policy G-103, Admission Procedures conversations with the youth during the admittance process, medical and behavioral health screenings; ☒ during classification assessments; and by reviewing ☐ ☐ court records, case files, facility behavioral records, and other relevant documentation from the youth’s files. The facility administrator shall implement appropriate Policy G-103, Admission Procedures controls on the dissemination of information within the facility relative to responses received pursuant to this ☒ assessment in order to ensure that sensitive information ☐ ☐ is not exploited to the youth’s detriment by staff or other youth. 1351 RELEASE PROCEDURES Policy G-105, Release Procedures The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures for release of youth from custody which provide for: (a) verification of identity/release papers; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (b) return of personal clothing and valuables; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (c) notification to the youth's parents or guardian; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (d) notification to the facility health care provider in Policy G-105, Release Procedures accordance with Sections 1408 and 1437 of these ☒ ☐ ☐ regulations, for coordination with outside agencies; and, (e) notification of school staff; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (f) notification of facility mental health personnel. ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 16 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 The facility administrator shall develop and implement Policy G-105, Release Procedures, policies and procedures for post-disposition youth to Subsection III coordinate the provision of transitional and reentry services including, but not limited to, medical and Completed release forms were provided for behavioral health, education, probation supervision and review; the process involves both Unit and community-based services. Intake staff, ensuring all of the components below are completed. The facility also has a process for furloughing youth, also known as ☒ temporary release. ☐ ☐ Transitional and re-entry services are coordinated by the assigned Deputy Probation Officer, in collaboration with partners including but not limited to Wellpath Medical Services, Wellpath Behavioral Health, and the County Office of Education. The facility administrator shall develop and implement Policy G-105, Release Procedures, written policies and procedures for the furlough of youth ☒ Subsection II, Temporary Release ☐ ☐ from custody. 1352 CLASSIFICATION Policy G-107, Classification The facility administrator shall develop and implement Classification factors include emotional written policies and procedures on classification of youth stability, offense, sophistication, gang for the purpose of determining housing placement in the affiliation, facility behaviors, and special facility. management factors such as medical Such procedures shall: considerations. The shift supervisor or ☒ ☐ ☐ designee will review each youth’s security classification. Ten examples were provided; a review of classification documentation found the processes consistent in identifying criteria for appropriate safety, security, and placement of youth in the facility. (a) provide for the safety of the youth, other youth, facility Policy G-107, Classification staff, and the public by placing youth in the appropriate, least restrictive housing and program settings. Housing ☒ ☐ ☐ assignments shall consider the need for single, double or dormitory assignment or location within the dormitory; (b) consider facility populations and physical design of Policy G-107, Classification ☒ the facility; ☐ ☐ (c) provide that a youth shall be classified upon Policy G-107, Classification admittance to the facility; classification factors shall include, but not be limited to: age, maturity, Youth are classified based on various criteria sophistication, emotional stability, program needs, legal ascertained during admittance to ensure status, public safety considerations, medical/mental compliance with this regulation. health considerations, gender and gender identity of the youth; During the dates of inspection, the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ had two occupied buildings and four occupied units. Units A and B housed Juvenile Hall youth, and Units G and H housed Camp and SYTF youth. This is subject to change, as the facility is planning remodeling of some spaces in the facility. (d) provide for periodic classification reviews, including Policy G-107, Classification provisions that consider the level of supervision and the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth's behavior while in custody; and, 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 17 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) provide that facility staff shall not separate youth from Policy G-107, Classification the general population or assign youth to a single occupancy room based solely on the youth's actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ☒ gender identity, gender expression, mental or physical ☐ ☐ disability, or HIV status. This section does not prohibit staff from placing youth in a single occupancy room at the youth's specific request or in accordance with Title 15 regulations regarding separation. (f) facility staff shall not consider lesbian, gay, bisexual, Policy G-107, Classification transgender, questioning or intersex identification or ☒ status as an indicator of likelihood of being sexually ☐ ☐ abusive. 1352.5 TRANSGENDER AND INTERSEX YOUTH. Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, 3B Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ The facility administrator shall develop written policies and procedures ensuring respectful and equitable ☒ ☐ ☐ treatment of transgender and intersex youth. The policies shall provide that: (a) Facility staff shall respect every youth’s gender Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, identity and shall refer to the youth by the youth’s Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ preferred name and gender pronoun, regardless of the youth’s legal name. Facilities may prohibit the use of ☒ gang or slang names or names that otherwise ☐ ☐ compromise facility operations as determined by the facility manager or designee, and shall document any decision made on this basis. (b) Facility staff shall permit youth to dress and present Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, themselves in a manner consistent with their gender Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ identity and shall provide youth with the institution’s ☒ ☐ ☐ clothing and undergarments consistent with their gender identity. (c) Facility staff shall house youth in the unit or room that Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, best meets their individual needs and promotes their Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ safety and well-being. Staff may not automatically house youth according to their external anatomy and shall Policy G-107, Other Classification document the reasons for any decision to house youth ☒ Considerations, III, IV, V ☐ ☐ in a unit that does not match their gender identity. In making a housing decision, staff shall consider the youth’s preferences, as well as any recommendations from the youth’s health or behavioral health provider. (d) Facility administrators shall ensure that transgender Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and intersex youth have access to medical and Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ ☒ behavioral health providers qualified to provide care and ☐ ☐ treatment to transgender and intersex youth. (e) Consistent with the facility’s reasonable and Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, necessary security considerations and physical plant, Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ facility staff shall make every effort to ensure the safety ☒ and privacy of transgender and intersex youth when the ☐ ☐ youth are using the bathroom or shower, or dressing or undressing. Facility staff shall not conduct physical searches of any Policy F-106, Searches youth for the purpose of determining the youth’s Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in anatomical sex. Whenever feasible, the facility shall ☒ Custody ☐ ☐ respect the youth’s preference regarding the gender of the staff member who conducts any search of the youth. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 18 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1353 ORIENTATION Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures to orient a youth prior to The facility normally provides orientation placement in a living area. Both written and verbal both verbally and in writing during admission information shall be provided and supplemented with to the Juvenile Hall, and the ten-page video orientation if feasible. Provision shall be made to Orientation Pamphlet is provided to the provide accessible orientation information to all detained youth to keep during their time in custody. youth including those with disabilities, limited literacy, or Should a youth entering SYTF wish to again English language learners. review the orientation information, staff will Orientation shall include information that addresses: cover the material presented during orientation. The information reviews the applicable laws and regulations, and there are signs throughout the facility reminding youth of the rules, as well as incentives and sanctions. The Massachusetts Youth ☒ Screening Instrument (MAYSI-2), the Victim ☐ ☐ Vulnerability Assessment, and other tools may be used to assess the youth and ensure their understanding of the orientation process. Interviews with youth about the orientation process and their understanding of the information provided by facility staff also confirmed compliance with this section. The youth sign an acknowledgment of the Orientation Pamphlet, which emphasizes facility rules and the PREA policy as it relates to zero tolerance for any sexual abuse, assault, or harassment. (a) facility rules including contraband and searches and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, disciplinary procedures; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (b) facility’s system of positive behavior interventions Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, and supports, including behavior expectations, Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure incentives that youth will receive for complying with ☒ ☐ ☐ facility rules, and consequences that may result when youth violate the rules of the facility; (c) age appropriate information that explains the facility’s Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, policy prohibiting sexual abuse and sexual harassment Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure and how to report incidents or suspicions of sexual ☒ abuse or sexual harassment; ☐ ☐ Youth are required to watch the facilities PREA video and sign the PREA advisement. (d) identification of key staff and their roles; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (e) the existence of the grievance procedure, the steps Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, that must be taken to use it, the youth’s right to be free Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☒ of retaliation for reporting a grievance, and the name of ☐ ☐ the person or position designated to resolve the issue; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (f) access to legal services and information on the court ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure process; ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 19 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (g) access to routine and emergency health and mental ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure health care; ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (h) access to education, religious services, and ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure recreational activities; ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (i) housing assignments; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (j) opportunity for personal hygiene and daily showers Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, including the availability of personal care items ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (k) rules and access to correspondence, visits and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, telephone use; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (l) availability of reading materials, programming, and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, other activities; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (m) facility policies on the use of force, use of restraints, Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, chemical agents and room confinement; Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure The Booking Officer verbally reviews the Rules of Conduct, and the youth will sign acknowledging they understand the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ rules. The booking officer will also review emergency procedures with the youth, providing the “Cover” command form and OC Spray form, and the youth will sign both acknowledging and understanding. Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (n) immigration legal services; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (o) emergencies including evacuation procedures; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (p) non-discrimination policy and the right to be free from Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, physical, verbal or sexual abuse and harassment by ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ other youth and staff; (q) availability of services and programs in a language Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, other than English if appropriate; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (r) the process for requesting different housing, Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, education, programming and work assignments; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (s) a process for which parents/guardians receive Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, information regarding the youth’s stay in the facility that Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure at a minimum includes answers to frequently asked ☒ ☐ ☐ questions and provides contact information for the facility, medical, school and mental health; and, (t) a process by which youth may request access to Title Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, 15 Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities. ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 20 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1354 SEPARATION Policy G-124, Separation The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures that address: (a) separation of youth for reasons that include, but are Policy G-124, Separation not be limited to, medical and mental health conditions, assaultive behavior, disciplinary consequences and Separation may occur for different reasons. protective custody. Voluntary Separation, also known as Self Separation, represents the youth’s decision not to participate in activities or programming; for example, if they feel overwhelmed and need a cool-down period. If the youth choose to separate for 15 minutes or more, staff shall have a conversation with the youth to assess and determine the reason for separation. Staff initiate a program refusal log, complete an incident report, and submit a referral to Behavioral Health Services. Involuntary separation, also known as Administrative Separation, may occur for various reasons as well, including medical reasons, behavioral health reasons, ☒ protective reasons, or assaultive behavior ☐ ☐ either by or towards youth or staff. In the event of Administrative Separation, the approval of a Division Manager is required, and specified criteria must be met in order to return the youth to regular programming. The youth’s behavior is evaluated each shift as efforts are made to meet the established goals of reintegration. The Supervisor documents progress every shift, provides a summary, and has the documentation reviewed by the Administration, in compliance with this policy and regulation. Documentation of ten examples of Administrative Separation between January and September of 2025 was done and determined the facility is in compliance with this regulation. (b) consideration of positive youth development and Policy G-124, Separation ☒ trauma-informed care. ☐ ☐ (c) separated youth shall not be denied normal privileges Policy G-124, Separation available at the facility, except when necessary to ☒ ☐ ☐ accomplish the objective of separation. (d) when the objective of the separation is discipline, Policy G-124, Separation Title 15 Section 1390 shall apply. ☒ Policy I-101 Discipline Process ☐ ☐ (e) when separation results in room confinement, the Policy G-124, Separation separation shall occur in accordance with Welfare and ☒ Institutions Code Section 208.3 and Section 1354.5 of ☐ ☐ these regulations. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 21 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (f) policies and procedures shall ensure a daily review of Policy G-124, Separation separated youth to determine if separation remains ☒ ☐ ☐ necessary. 1354.5 ROOM CONFINEMENT Policy G-108, Room Confinement 4B (a) The facility administrator shall develop and From January to September 2025, there implement written policies and procedures addressing were zero uses of Room Confinement. the confinement of youth in their room that are consistent with Welfare and Institutions Code Section 208.3. The The department’s policy is compliant with placement of a youth in room confinement shall be Title 15, and staff will utilize Room accomplished in accordance with the following Confinement only when other options are guidelines: ☒ unfeasible, thus the low number. Should ☐ ☐ Room Confinement occur, staff work to reintegrate youth as soon as possible. A review of the documentation process for Room Confinement included the Room Confinement Checklist, identifying the staff responsibilities for the process, the incident report, and the safety check log. (1) Room confinement shall not be used before other, Policy G-108, Room Confinement less restrictive, options have been attempted and ☒ exhausted, unless attempting those options poses a ☐ ☐ threat to the safety or security of any youth or staff. (2) Room confinement shall not be used for the Policy G-108, Room Confinement purposes of punishment, coercion, convenience, or ☒ ☐ ☐ retaliation by staff. (3) Room confinement shall not be used to the extent Policy G-108, Room Confinement that it compromises the mental and physical health of ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth. (b) A youth may be held up to four hours in room Policy G-108, Room Confinement confinement. After the youth has been held in room ☒ confinement for a period of four hours, staff shall do one ☐ ☐ or more of the following: Policy G-108, Room Confinement (1) Return the youth to general population. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-108, Room Confinement (2) Consult with mental health or medical staff. ☒ ☐ ☐ (3) Develop an individualized plan that includes the Policy G-108, Room Confinement goals and objectives to be met in order to reintegrate ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth to general population. (4) If room confinement must be extended beyond Policy G-108, Room Confinement four hours, staff shall do each of the following: (A) Document the reasons for room confinement and the basis for the extension, the date and time ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth was first placed in room confinement, and when he or she is eventually released from room confinement. (B) Develop an individualized plan that includes Policy G-108, Room Confinement the goals and objectives to be met in order to ☒ ☐ ☐ integrate the youth to general population. (C) Obtain documented authorization by the Policy G-108, Room Confinement facility superintendent or his or her designee ☒ ☐ ☐ every four hours thereafter. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 22 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (5) This section is not intended to limit the use of Policy G-108, Room Confinement single-person rooms or cells for the housing of youth ☒ in juvenile facilities and does not apply to normal ☐ ☐ sleeping hours. (6) This section does not apply to youth or wards in Policy G-108, Room Confinement ☒ court holding facilities or adult facilities. ☐ ☐ (7) Nothing in this section shall be construed to Policy G-108, Room Confinement conflict with any law providing greater or additional ☒ ☐ ☐ protections to youth. (8) This section does not apply during an Policy G-108, Room Confinement extraordinary emergency circumstance that requires a significant departure from normal institutional operations, including a natural disaster or facility- ☒ wide threat that poses an imminent and substantial ☐ ☐ risk of harm to multiple staff or youth. This exception shall apply for the shortest amount of time needed to address this imminent and substantial risk of harm. (9) This section does not apply when a youth is Policy G-108, Room Confinement placed in a locked cell or sleeping room to treat and protect against the spread of a communicable disease for the shortest amount of time required to reduce the risk of infection, with the written approval of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, when the youth is not required to be in an infirmary for an ☒ ☐ ☐ illness. Additionally, this section does not apply when a youth is placed in a locked cell or sleeping room for required extended care after medical treatment with the written approval of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, when the youth is not required to be in an infirmary for illness. 1355 INSTITUTIONAL ASSESSMENT AND PLAN Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and Plan The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures for assessment and case planning. (a) Assessment: Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and The assessment is based on information collected Plan during the admission process with periodic review, which includes the youth's risk factors, needs and strengths ☒ including, but not limited to, identification of substance ☐ ☐ abuse history, educational, vocational, counseling, behavioral health, consideration of known history of trauma, and family strengths and needs. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 23 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b)Institutional Case Plan: Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and (1) A case plan shall be developed for each youth Plan held for at least 30 days or more and created within 40 days of admission. Youth in SYTF will likely have previously had their initial Case Plan completed sometime prior and will have had their Case Plan updated multiple times since. The Deputy Probation Officer will develop a case plan for the youth with goals and objectives. Youth supervision s taff also ☒ ☐ ☐ monitor the youth’s progress and meet with the youth, document ing their interactions. Youth supervision staff and the assigned Deputy Probation Officer work together to assist the youth in reaching their rehabilitative goals as related to key life areas. A random sample of ten examples of documentation between January and September of 2025 were reviewed and were found to be in compliance with policy and regulation. (2) The institutional plan shall include, but not be Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and limited to, written documentation that provides: Plan ☒ (A)objectives and time frame for the resolution of ☐ ☐ problems identified in the assessment; (B)a plan for meeting the objectives that includes Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and a description of program resources needed and Plan ☒ individuals responsible for assuring that the plan ☐ ☐ is implemented; (3) periodic evaluation of progress towards meeting Per policy, the youth's plan is updated every the objectives, including periodic review and six months or more frequently. The six discussion of the plan with the youth; Hybrid Deputy Probation Officers assigned to the facility ensure the case plans are completed in a timely manner. In interviews with the youth, most stated that their Probation Officer has been updating their Case Plan each month, rather than waiting for the six-month date. We reviewed examples of initial and updated plans, which addressed the goals established, interventions implemented, and timelines for completion, and found the documentation ☒ ☐ ☐ supported the case plan and outcomes. SYTF youth also receive an Individual Service Plan prior to their six-month required Court Review of their SYTF commitment. This plan is extensive and includes information concerning behavior and achievements while in custody. Within 30 days of a youth’s scheduled release, a Child and Family Team (CFT) Plan is created to establish re-entry and transition goals. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 24 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (4) a transition plan, the contents of which shall be Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and subject to existing resources, shall be developed for Plan ☒ post dispositional youth in accordance with Section ☐ ☐ 1351; and, (5) in as much as possible and if appropriate, the Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and plan, including the transition plan, shall be developed Plan with input from the family, supportive adults, youth, and Regional Center for the Developmentally Facility staff and collaborative partners, such ☒ Disabled. ☐ ☐ as Wellpath Behavioral Health, were interviewed, and affirmed that meetings are routinely held with the youth in order to provide transitional services. 1356 COUNSELING AND CASEWORK SERVICES Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework Services The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures ensuring the availability of appropriate counseling and casework services for all ☒ ☐ ☐ youth. Policies and procedures shall ensure: (a) youth will receive assistance with needs or concerns that may arise; (b) youth will receive assistance in requesting contact Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework with parents, other supportive adults, attorney, clergy, ☒ Services ☐ ☐ probation officer, or other public official; and, (c) youth will be provided access to available resources Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework ☒ to meet the youth’s needs. ☐ ☐ Services 1357 USE OF FORCE Policy H-112, Use of Force The facility administrator, in cooperation with the Ten samples of use of force reports occurring responsible physician, shall develop and implement between January and September 2025 were written policies and procedures for the use of force, reviewed; the reports involved youth which may include chemical agents. Force shall never engaging in fights with other youths. The be applied as punishment, discipline, retaliation or review found the uses of force were within treatment. policy, and staff responses and actions were (a) At a minimum, each facility shall develop policies and appropriate based on the documentation procedures which: submitted. BSCC staff interviewed youth and staff as to use of force actions and responses. The facility is in compliance with this regulation. ☒ ☐ ☐ The staff meet monthly, or as needed, to audit and review all aspects of the Use of Force incidents, including the incident reports and camera reviews. The findings made by the Administration post review indicate the staff acted within policy, in response to the identified threat, and articulate the level of force necessary. Use of force incidents at the facility overall show a pattern, with the total number of Use of Force incidents decreasing with each inspection. (1) restricts the use of force to that which is deemed Policy H-112, Use of Force reasonable and necessary, as defined in Section 1302 ☒ to ensure the safety and security of youth, staff, others ☐ ☐ and the facility. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 25 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (2) outline the force options available to staff including Policy H-112, Use of Force both physical and non-physical options and define when those force options are appropriate. The continuum of options includes Officer ☒ ☐ ☐ Presence, Counseling, Verbal Commands, Empty Hand Controls, Defensive Tactics, and OC Spray. (3) describe force options or techniques that are Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ expressly prohibited by the facility. ☐ ☐ (4) describe the requirements of staff to report any Policy H-112, Use of Force inappropriate use of force, and to take affirmative ☒ ☐ ☐ action to immediately stop it. (5) define a standardized reporting format that Policy H-112, Use of Force includes time period and procedure for documenting and reporting the use of force, including reporting requirements of management and line staff and procedures for reviewing and tracking use of force incidents by supervisory and or management staff, ☒ ☐ ☐ which include procedures for debriefing a particular incident with staff and/or youth for the purposes of training as well as mitigating the effects of trauma that may have been experienced by staff and /or the youth involved. (6) Include an administrative review and a system for Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ investigating unreasonable use of force. ☐ ☐ (7) define the role, notification, and follow-up Policy H-112, Use of Force procedures required after use of force incidents for medical, mental health staff and parents or legal Medical staff are immediately notified and guardians. typically respond to the units to provide direct care and confirmation of decontamination if OC spray is used. Behavioral health staff are ☒ ☐ ☐ also notified and respond if they are on-site; if not, they respond upon their return, unless requested. In addition, documentation confirms that the youth’s parents or legal guardians are notified. (8) describe the limitations of use of force on pregnant Policy H-112, Use of Force youth in accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) ☒ and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. ☐ ☐ Policy H-116, Pregnant Youth (b) Facilities that authorize chemical agents as a force Policy H-112, Use of Force option shall include policies and procedures that: (1) identify who is approved to carry and/or utilize ☒ chemical agents in the facility and the type, size and ☐ ☐ the approved method of deployment for those chemical agents. (2) mandate that chemical agents only be used when Policy H-112, Use of Force there is an imminent threat to the youth’s safety or the safety of others and only when de-escalation efforts ☒ ☐ ☐ have been unsuccessful or are not reasonably possible. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 26 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (3) outline the facility’s approved methods and Policy H-112, Use of Force timelines for decontamination from chemical agents. This shall include that youth who have been exposed ☒ to chemical agents shall not be left unattended until ☐ ☐ that youth is fully decontaminated or is no longer suffering the effects of the chemical agent. (4) define the role, notification, and follow-up Policy H-112, Use of Force procedures required after use of force incidents ☒ involving chemical agents for medical, mental health ☐ ☐ staff and parents or legal guardians. (5) provide for the documentation of each incident of Policy H-112, Use of Force use of chemical agents, including the reasons for which it was used, efforts to de-escalate prior to use, youth and staff involved, the date, time and location ☒ ☐ ☐ of use, decontamination procedures applied and identification of any injuries sustained as a result of such use. (c) Facilities shall develop policies and procedure which Policy H-112, Use of Force require that agencies provide initial and regular training in use of force and chemical agents when appropriate Following the completion of JCO Core, staff that address: ☒ receive sixteen or more hours of training in ☐ ☐ (1) known medical and behavioral health conditions unarmed defense, weaponless techniques, that would contraindicate certain types of force; and OC spray annually. (2) acceptable chemical agents and the methods of Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ application. ☐ ☐ (3) signs or symptoms that should result in immediate Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ referral to medical or behavioral health. ☐ ☐ (4) instruction on the Constitutional Limitations of Use Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ of Force. ☐ ☐ (5) physical training force options that may require Policy H-112, Use of Force, Training the use of perishable skills. Requirements for Physical / OC Spray Force ☒ ☐ ☐ Interventions (6) timelines the facility uses to define regular Policy H-112, Use of Force, Training training. Requirements for Physical / OC Spray Force ☒ Interventions, Subsection IV, update training ☐ ☐ annually 1358 USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINTS Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints within the Facility The facility administrator, in cooperation with the responsible physician and mental health director, shall develop and implement written policies and procedures ☒ ☐ ☐ The facility had no youth placed in restraints as it pertained to this regulation. for the use of restraint devices. Restraint devices include any devices which immobilize a youth's extremities and/or prevent the youth from being ambulatory. Physical restraints may be used only for those youth who Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints present an immediate danger to themselves or others, within the Facility who exhibit behavior which results in the destruction of property, or reveals the intent to cause self-inflicted ☒ ☐ ☐ physical harm. Physical restraints should be utilized only when it appears less restrictive alternatives would be ineffective in controlling the youth’s behavior. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 27 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 In no case shall restraints be used as punishment or Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints discipline, or as a substitute for treatment. The use of within the Facility restraint devices that attach a youth to a wall, floor or other fixture, including a restraint chair, or through affixing of ☒ hands and feet together behind the back (hogtying) is ☐ ☐ prohibited. The use of restraints on pregnant youth is limited in accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. The provisions of this section do not apply to the use of Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints handcuffs, shackles or other restraint devices when used within the Facility to restrain youth for movement or transportation within the ☒ facility. Movement within the facility shall be governed by ☐ ☐ Section 1358.5, Use of Restraint Devices for Movement Within the Facility. Youth shall be placed in restraints only with the approval Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints of the facility manager or designee. The facility manager within the Facility may delegate authority to place a youth in restraints to a ☒ physician. Reasons for continued retention in restraints ☐ ☐ shall be reviewed and documented at a minimum of every hour. A medical opinion on the safety of placement and Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints retention shall be secured as soon as possible, but no within the Facility later than two hours from the time of placement. The youth ☒ ☐ ☐ shall be medically cleared for continued retention at least every three hours thereafter. A mental health consultation shall be secured as soon as Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints possible, but in no case longer than four hours from the within the Facility ☒ time of placement, to assess the need for mental health ☐ ☐ treatment. Continuous direct visual supervision shall be conducted Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints to ensure that the restraints are properly employed, and within the Facility to ensure the safety and well-being of the youth. ☒ Observations of the youth's behavior and any staff ☐ ☐ interventions shall be documented at least every 15 minutes, with actual time of the documentation recorded. In addition to the requirements above, policies and Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints procedures shall address: within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ (a) documentation of the circumstances leading to an application of restraints. (b) known medical conditions that would contraindicate Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints certain restraint devices and/or techniques. within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ (c) acceptable restraint devices. Policy F-107, Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints within the Facility The facility has identified hard restraint ☒ ☐ ☐ devices as metal handcuffs or leg shackles, and soft restraints as plastic cuffs, cloth restraints, and WRAP restraining device. (d) signs or symptoms which should result in immediate Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints medical/mental health referral. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 28 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) availability of cardiopulmonary resuscitation Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints equipment. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility (f) protective housing of restrained youth. While in Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints restraint devices, all youth shall be housed alone or in a within the Facility specified housing area for restrained youth which makes ☒ ☐ ☐ provision to protect the youth from abuse. Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints (g) provision for hydration and sanitation needs. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints (h) exercising of extremities. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility 1358.5 USE OF RESTRAINT DEVICES FOR Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints 5B MOVEMENT AND TRANSPORTATION WITHIN within the Facility THE FACILITY. Ten examples of the use of restraints for The Facility Administrator, in cooperation with the movement and transportation within the responsible physician and behavioral/mental health facility between January and September director, shall develop and implement written policies 2025 were provided. A review of and procedures for the use of restraint devices when the documentation indicated that restraint use purpose is for movement or transportation within the was for assaultive behavior and behavior facility that shall include the following: resulting in safety or security concerns. The (a) identification of acceptable restraint devices, staff youth were moved from their location, or the approved to utilize restraint devices and the required location of the incident, to their rooms where training. ☒ ☐ ☐ the restraints were removed. Staff are required to document the circumstances leading to the restraint, the less restrictive measures considered, known medical conditions, and the consideration of trauma due to the restraint application. The justification is documented on a “Restraint Device Assessment for Movement and Transportation Within the Facility” form. (b) the circumstances leading to the application of Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints ☒ ☐ ☐ restraints must be documented. within the Facility (c) an individual assessment of the need to apply Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints restraints for movement or transportation that includes within the Facility consideration of less restrictive alternatives, consideration of a youth’s known medical or mental ☒ ☐ ☐ health conditions, trauma informed approaches, and a process for documentation and supervisor review and approval. (d) consideration of safety and security of the facility, Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints with a clearly defined expectation that restraint devices within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ shall not be used for the purposes of discipline or retaliation. (e) the use of restraints on pregnant youth is limited in Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) and within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. Policy H-116, Pregnant Youth 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 29 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1359 SAFETY ROOM PROCEDURES Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (a) The facility administrator, and where applicable, in There have been zero uses of the Safety cooperation with the responsible physician, shall Room in Intake between January and develop and implement written policies and procedures September 2025. governing the use of safety rooms, as described in Title 24, Part 2, Section 1230.1.13. The room shall be used to hold only those youth who present an immediate ☒ ☐ ☐ danger to themselves or others, who exhibit behavior which results in the destruction of property, or reveals the intent to cause self-inflicted physical harm. A safety room shall not be used for punishment or discipline, or as a substitute for treatment. Policies and procedures shall: (1) include provisions for administration of necessary Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. nutrition and fluids, access to a toilet, and suitable ☒ ☐ ☐ clothing to provide for privacy; (2) provide for approval of the facility manager, or Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. ☒ ☐ ☐ designee, before a youth is placed into a safety room; (3) provide for continuous direct visual supervision Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. and documentation of the youth's behavior and any ☒ ☐ ☐ staff interventions every 15 minutes, with actual time recorded; (4) provide that the youth shall be evaluated by the Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. ☒ ☐ ☐ facility manager, or designee, every four hours; (5) provide for immediate medical assessment, Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. where appropriate, or an assessment at the next ☒ ☐ ☐ daily sick call; and, (6) provide a process for documenting the reason for Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. placement, including attempts to use less restrictive ☒ ☐ ☐ means of control, and decisions to continue and end placement. (b) The placement of a youth in the safety room shall be Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. accomplished in accordance with the following: (1) safety room shall not be used before other less ☒ ☐ ☐ restrictive options have been attempted and exhausted, unless attempting those options poses a threat to the safety or security of any youth or staff. (2) safety room shall not be used for the purposes of Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. punishment, coercion, convenience, or retaliation by ☒ ☐ ☐ staff. (3) safety room shall not be used to the extent that it Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. compromises the mental and physical health of the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth. (c) A youth may be held up to four hours in the safety Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. room. After the youth has been held in the safety room ☒ ☐ ☐ for a period of four hours, staff shall do one or more of the following: (1) return the youth to general population. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (2) consult with mental health or medical staff, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (3) develop an individualized plan that includes the Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. goals and objectives to be met in order to reintegrate ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth to general population. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 30 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (d) If confinement in the safety room must be extended Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. beyond four hours, staff shall develop an individualized plan that includes the requirements of Section 1354.5 ☒ ☐ ☐ and the goals and objectives to be met in order to integrate the youth to general population. 1360 SEARCHES Policy F-106, Searches The facility administrator shall develop and implement Includes the types of searches, procedures written policies and procedures governing the search of for pat-down searches, provisions for youth, the facility, and visitors. transgender/intersex pat-down searches, Policies and procedures shall provide that: ☒ ☐ ☐ metal detector searches, room searches, perimeter searches, etc. (a) Searches shall be conducted to ensure the safety Policy F-106, Searches and security of the facility, public, visitors, youth, and ☒ ☐ ☐ staff. (b) Searches shall be conducted in a manner that Policy F-106, Searches preserves the privacy and dignity of the person being ☒ ☐ ☐ searched and shall not be conducted for harassment or as a form of discipline or punishment. (c) Strip searches and visual or physical body cavity Policy F-106, Searches searches shall comply with Penal Code Section 4030. Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody The Justification for Strip Search form articulates the requirements to do the search, including providing documentation of reasonable cause and Supervisor Approval. ☒ ☐ ☐ All strip search forms between January and September 2025 were reviewed, and in each instance, the Justification Form was completed and signed. We reviewed Strip Search Authorization forms and found the necessary reasonable suspicion articulated with accompanying supervisor approval. (d) Physical body cavity searches shall only be Policy F-106, Searches conducted by a medical professional. Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody ☒ ☐ ☐ No physical body cavity searches have been conducted at the facility in this inspection cycle. (e) Any youth held after a detention hearing shall only be Policy F-106, Searches strip searched with prior approval of a supervisor when there is reasonable suspicion based on specific and Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in ☒ ☐ ☐ articulable facts to believe that youth is concealing Custody contraband. The reasonable suspicion shall be documented. (f) Searches of transgender and intersex youth shall Policy F-106, Searches comply with Section 1352.5. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 31 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (g) Cross-gender pat-down searches and strip searches Policy F-106, Searches are prohibited except in exigent circumstances or when conducted by a medical professional. Such searches ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in must be justified and documented in writing. Custody 1361 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure The facility administrator shall develop and implement Grievance forms were located on each unit, written policies and procedures whereby any youth may and all youth interviewed knew of the appeal and have resolved grievances relating to any grievance process and the location of the condition of confinement, including but not limited to forms. A random sample of ten grievances health care services, classification decisions, program between January and September of 2025 participation, telephone, mail or visiting procedures, were reviewed and revealed that the two food, clothing, bedding, mistreatment, harassment or ☒ ☐ ☐ most common concerns resulting in a violations of the nondiscrimination policy. There shall be grievance submission were regarding the no time limit on filing grievances. Policies and youths’ behavior program points and the procedures shall include provisions whereby the facility food being provided in the facility. All manager ensures: grievances were resolved within the required ten-day time frame, and the facility is in compliance. (a) a grievance form and instructions for registering a Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure grievance, which includes provisions for the youth to ☒ ☐ ☐ have free access to the form; (b) the youth shall have the option to confidentially file Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure the grievance or to deliver the form to any youth ☒ ☐ ☐ supervision staff working in the facility; (c) resolution of the grievance at the lowest appropriate Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ staff level; (d) provision for a prompt review and initial response to Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure. grievances within three (3) business days, grievances ☒ ☐ ☐ that relate to health and safety issues must be Between January and September 2025, all addressed immediately; grievances were resolved within ten days. (1) The youth may elect to be present to explain Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure his/her version of the grievance to a person not ☒ ☐ ☐ directly involved in the circumstances which led to the grievance. (2) Provision for a staff representative approved by Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility administrator to assist the youth. (e) provision for a written response to the grievance Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ which includes the reasons for the decisions; (f) a system which provides that any appeal of a Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure grievance shall be heard by a person not directly ☒ ☐ ☐ involved in the circumstances which led to the grievance; (g) resolution of the grievance must occur within ten (10) Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure business days unless circumstances dictate a longer time frame. The youth shall be notified of any delay; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Between January and September 2025, all grievances were resolved within ten days. (h) the policy shall provide multiple internal and external Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ methods to report sexual abuse and sexual harassment. Whether or not associated with a grievance, concerns of Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure parents, guardians, staff or other parties shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ addressed and documented in accordance with written policies and procedures within a specified timeframe. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 32 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1362 REPORTING OF INCIDENTS Policy E-108 Incident Reports A written report of all incidents which result in physical harm, use of force, serious threat of physical harm, or death of an employee, youth or other person(s) shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ maintained. Such written record shall be prepared by the staff and submitted to the facility manager by the end of the shift, unless additional time is necessary and authorized by the facility manager or designee. 1363 USE OF REASONABLE FORCE TO COLLECT The Department’s prior Policy 01-0309-28, DNA SPECIMENS, SAMPLES, IMPRESSIONS DNA Policy, was revised through Lexipol on November 21, 2022, to become Policy 320, (a) Pursuant to Penal Code Section 298.1 authorized Biological Samples (DNA). law enforcement, custodial, or corrections personnel including peace officers, may employ reasonable force to collect blood specimens, saliva samples, and thumb or palm print impressions from individuals who are required to provide such samples, specimens or ☒ ☐ ☐ impressions pursuant to Penal Code Section 296 and who refuse following written or oral request. (1) For the purpose of this section, the “use of reasonable force” shall be defined as the force that an objective, trained and competent correctional employee, faced with similar facts and circumstances, would consider necessary and reasonable to gain compliance with this section. (2) The use of reasonable force shall be preceded by Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) efforts to secure voluntary compliance. Efforts to secure voluntary compliance shall be documented ☒ ☐ ☐ and include an advisement of the legal obligation to provide the requisite specimen, sample or impression and the consequences of refusal. (b) The force shall not be used without the prior written Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) authorization of the supervising officer on duty. The authorization shall include information that reflects the ☒ ☐ ☐ fact that the offender was asked to provide the requisite specimen, sample, or impression and refused. (1) If the use of reasonable force includes a cell Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) extraction, the extraction shall be videotaped. Video shall be directed at the cell extraction event. The videotape shall be retained by the agency for the ☒ ☐ ☐ length of time required by statute. Notwithstanding the use of the video as evidence in a court proceeding, the tape shall be retained administratively. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 33 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1370 EDUCATION PROGRAM Policy J-104, School Programs (a) School Programs The Merced County Office of Education The County Board of Education shall provide for the (MCOE) operates the educational program administration and operation of juvenile court schools in for the facility. The principal and teachers are conjunction with the Chief Probation Officer, or designee committed to providing an educational pursuant to applicable State laws. The school and facility environment for youth. Youth who have administrators shall develop and implement written policy graduated from high school continue their and procedures to ensure communication and education with online enrollment through coordination between educators and probation staff. Merced College. The majority of youth in the Culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches facility are high school graduates, having should be applied when providing instruction. Education been provided with programs to connect the staff should collaborate with the facility administrator to youth to community college courses and use technology to facilitate learning and ensure safe with academic support to assist them with technology practices. The facility administrator shall ☒ ☐ ☐ the successful completion of their college request an annual review of each required element of the degree. program by the Superintendent of Schools, and a report or review checklist on compliance, deficiencies, and Transition and reentry services occur for corrective action needed to achieve compliance with this youth as they prepare to exit the facility, section. Such a review, when conducted, cannot be including meeting with representatives of the delegated to the principal or any other staff of any juvenile Merced County Office of Education, such as court school site. The Superintendent of Schools shall a Job Development Training Technician. conduct this review in conjunction with a qualified outside agency or individual. Upon receipt of the review, the facility administrator or designee shall review each item with the Superintendent of Schools and shall take whatever corrective action is necessary to address each deficiency and to fully protect the educational interests of all youth in the facility. (b) Required Elements Policy J-104, School Programs The facility school program shall comply with the State Education Code and County Board of Education policies, all applicable federal education statutes and regulations and provide for an annual evaluation of the educational program offerings. As stated in the 2009 California Standards for the Teaching Profession, teachers shall ☒ ☐ ☐ establish and maintain learning environments that are physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe. Youth shall be provided a rigorous, quality educational program that responds to the different learning styles and abilities of students and prepares them for high school graduation, career entry, and post-secondary education. All youth shall be treated equally, and the education Policy J-104, School Programs program shall be free from discriminatory action. Staff ☒ ☐ ☐ shall refer to transgender, intersex and gender- Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, nonconforming youth by their preferred name and gender. Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ (1) The course of study shall comply with the State Policy J-104, School Programs Education Code and include, but not be limited to, ☒ ☐ ☐ courses required for high school graduation. (2) Information and preparation for the High School Policy J-104, School Programs Equivalency Test as approved by the California ☒ ☐ ☐ Department of Education shall be made available to eligible youth. (3) Youth shall be informed of post-secondary Policy J-104, School Programs ☒ ☐ ☐ education and vocational opportunities. (4) Administration of the High School Equivalency Policy J-104, School Programs Tests as approved by the California Department of ☒ ☐ ☐ Education, shall be made available when possible. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 34 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (5) Supplemental instruction shall be afforded to youth Policy J-104, School Programs who do not demonstrate sufficient progress towards ☒ ☐ ☐ grade level standards. (6) The minimum school day shall be consistent with Policy J-104, School Programs State Education Code Requirements for juvenile court schools. The facility administrator, in conjunction with education staff, must ensure that operational ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures do not interfere with the time afforded for the minimum instructional day. Absences, time out of class or educational instruction, both excused and unexcused, shall be documented. (7) Education shall be provided to all youth regardless Policy J-104, School Programs of classification, housing, security status, disciplinary or separation status, including room confinement, except when providing education poses an immediate ☒ ☐ ☐ threat to the safety of self or others. Education includes, but is not limited to, related services as provided in a youth’s Section 504 Plan or Individualized Education Program (IEP). (c) School Discipline Policy J-104, School Programs (1) Positive behavior management will be implemented to reduce the need for disciplinary action ☒ ☐ ☐ in the school setting and be integrated into the facility's overall behavioral management plan and security system. (2) School staff shall be advised of administrative Policy J-104, School Programs decisions made by probation staff that may affect the ☒ ☐ ☐ educational programming of students. (3) Except as otherwise provided by the State Policy J-104, School Programs Education Code, expulsion/suspension from school shall be imposed only when other means of correction fails to bring about proper conduct. School staff shall follow the appropriate due process safeguards as set ☒ ☐ ☐ forth in the State Education Code including the rights of students with special needs. School staff shall document the other means of correction used prior to imposing expulsion/ suspension if an expulsion/suspension is ultimately imposed. (4) The facility administrator, in conjunction with Policy J-104, School Programs education staff will develop policies and procedures ☒ ☐ ☐ that address the rights of any student who has continuing difficulty completing a school day. (d) Provisions for Special Populations Policy J-104, School Programs (1) State and federal laws and regulations shall be observed for all individuals with disabilities or suspected disabilities. This includes but is not limited ☒ ☐ ☐ to child find, assessment, continuum of alternative placements, manifestation determination reviews, and implementation of Section 504 Plans and Individualized Education Programs. (2) Youth identified as English Learners (EL) shall be Policy J-104, School Programs afforded an educational program that addresses their language needs pursuant to all applicable state and ☒ ☐ ☐ federal laws and regulations governing programs for EL students. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 35 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) Educational Screening and Admission Policy J-104, School Programs (1) Youth shall be interviewed after admittance and a ☒ ☐ ☐ record maintained that documents a youth's educational history, including but not limited to: (A) School progress/school history; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-104, School Programs (B) Home Language Survey and the results of the Policy J-104, School Programs ☒ ☐ ☐ State Test used for English language proficiency; (C) Needs and services of special populations as Policy J-104, School Programs defined by the State Education Code, including but ☒ ☐ ☐ not limited to, students with special needs. (D) Discipline problems. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-104, School Programs (2) Youth will be immediately enrolled in school. Policy J-104, School Programs Educational staff shall conduct an assessment to ☒ ☐ ☐ determine the youth's general academic functioning levels to enable placement in core curriculum courses. (3) After admission to the facility, a preliminary Policy J-104, School Programs education plan shall be developed for each youth ☒ ☐ ☐ within five school days. (4) Upon enrollment, education staff shall comply with Policy J-104, School Programs the State Education Code and request the youth's records from his/her prior school(s), including, but not limited to, transcripts, Individual Education Program (IEP), 504 Plan, state language assessment scores, ☒ ☐ ☐ immunization records, exit grades, and partial credits. Upon receipt of the transcripts, the youth's educational plan shall be reviewed with the youth and modified as needed. Youth should be informed of the credits they need to graduate. (f) Educational Reporting Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The complete facility educational record of the youth shall be forwarded to the next educational ☒ ☐ ☐ placement in accordance with the State Education Code. (2) The County Superintendent of Schools shall Policy J-104, School Programs provide appropriate credit (full or partial) for course ☒ ☐ ☐ work completed while in juvenile court school in accordance with the State Education Code. (g) Transition and Re-Entry Planning Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The Superintendent of Schools and the Chief Probation Officer or designee, shall develop policies and procedures to meet the transition needs of youth, ☒ ☐ ☐ including the development of an education transition plan, in accordance with the State Education Code and in alignment with Title 15, Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities, Section 1355. (h) Post-Secondary Education Opportunities Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The school and facility administrator should, whenever possible, collaborate with local post- secondary education providers to facilitate access to ☒ ☐ ☐ educational and vocational opportunities for youth that considers the use of technology to implement these programs. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 36 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1371 PROGRAMS, RECREATION, AND EXERCISE. Policy J-106, Recreation 6B The facility administrator shall develop and implement The facility has many programming written policies and procedures for programs, recreation, opportunities, with GEO Reentry Services and exercise for all youth. The intent is to minimize the scheduling and completing much of the amount of time youth are in their rooms or their bed area. programming in the facility for youth since 2023. Programming at the facility has also been provided by additional programs, such as the Prison Education Project and Cactus Flower, supplementing GEO. An incentive program through GEO helps to ensure that all of the partners are participating in the behavior management program for youth in ☒ ☐ ☐ the same way for consistency. The schedules on each unit articulate the programming provided to each unit each day, and each youth has the opportunity to participate in the calendared events. Programming logs were reviewed with the number of hours documented for each youth, and were in compliance, unless the youth refused to participate, which was also documented. Interviews with youth and staff confirmed the receipt of programming every day, and youth were able to describe the programming they had participated in. Juvenile facilities shall provide the opportunity for Policy J-106, Recreation programs, recreation, and exercise a minimum of three hours a day during the week and five hours a day each ☒ ☐ ☐ Saturday, Sunday or other non-school days, of which one hour shall be an outdoor activity, weather permitting. A youth’s participation in programs, recreation, and Policy J-106, Recreation exercise may be suspended only upon a written finding by the administrator/manager or designee that a youth ☒ ☐ ☐ represents a threat to the safety and security of the facility. Such program, recreation, and exercise schedule shall Policy J-106, Recreation ☒ ☐ ☐ be posted in the living units. There will be a written annual review of the programs, Policy J-106, Recreation recreation, and exercise by the responsible agency to ensure content offered is current, consistent, and A letter dated January 27, 2025, from Deputy relevant to the population. Chief Probation Officer Ben Rodriguez was provided, certifying that the annual review of ☒ ☐ ☐ programs, recreation, and exercise, which promotes social awareness and reduces recidivism, has been completed in accordance with Title 15, Section 1371. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 37 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) Programs. All youth shall be provided with the Programs available at the time of inspection opportunity for at least one hour of daily programming to include: include, but not be limited to, trauma focused, cognitive, evidence-based, best practice interventions that are • Victim Impact, culturally relevant and linguistically appropriate, or pro- • Gang Intervention social interventions and activities designed to reduce • Anger Management recidivism. These programs should be based on the • Change Company youth’s individual needs as required by Sections 1355 • Life Skills and 1356. Such programs may be provided under the • Power Source direction of the Chief Probation Officer or the County • CBI Cognitive Behavioral Office of Education and can be administered by county Interventions Social Skills partners such as mental health agencies, community • Living in Balance based organizations, faith-based organizations or • Moral Reconation Therapy MRT Probation staff. • Creative Reading and Writing Programs may include but are not limited to: (1) Cognitive Behavior Interventions; (2) Management of Stress and Trauma; ☒ ☐ ☐ Interviews with youth and staff confirmed programming occurs daily by collaborative (3) Anger Management; partners such as GEO, through community- (4) Conflict Resolution; based organizations, or by facility staff. (5) Juvenile Justice System; (6) Trauma-related interventions; (7) Victim Awareness; (8) Self-Improvement; (9) Parenting Skills and support; (10) Tolerance and Diversity; (11) Healing Informed Approaches; (12) Interventions by Credible Messengers; (13) Gender Specific Programming; (14) Art, creative writing, or self-expression; (15) CPR and First Aid training; (16) Restorative Justice or Civic Engagement; (17) Career and leadership opportunities; and, (18) Other topics suitable to the youth population. (b) Recreation. All youth shall be provided the opportunity Policy J-106, Recreation for at least one hour of daily access to unscheduled activities such as leisure reading, letter writing, and Youth and staff interviewed confirmed that entertainment. Activities shall be supervised and include youth receive at least one hour, and often orientation and may include coaching of youth. ☒ ☐ ☐ more than one hour, of unstructured activities daily. Activities include reading, television, phone calls, board games, letter writing, and video games. (c) Exercise. All youth shall be provided with the J-106, Recreation, Subsection IV opportunity for at least one hour of large muscle activity each day. Youth and staff interviewed confirmed that youth receive at least one hour, and often more than one hour, of large muscle activity daily, typically outdoors unless the weather ☒ ☐ ☐ is inclement, in which case it is moved indoors. Activity available to the youth includes basketball, running, and various forms of exercise such as burpees, pushups, and sit-ups. The administrator/manager may suspend, for a period not J-106, Recreation, Subsection IX to exceed 24 hours, access to recreation and programs. ☒ ☐ ☐ The administrator/manager shall document the reasons why suspension of recreation and programs occurs. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 38 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1372 RELIGIOUS PROGRAM Policy J-103, Religious Programs. The facility administrator shall provide access to religious Religious services visit the facility once a services and/or religious counseling at least once each week, or more frequently, if requested. Youth week. Attendance shall be voluntary. A youth shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ and staff confirmed that religious services allowed to participate in an activity outside of their room if are available weekly, and they are not he/she elects not to participate in religious programs. required to participate. Religious programs shall provide for: (a) opportunity for religious services and practices; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. (b) availability of clergy; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. (c) availability of religious diets. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. 1373 WORK PROGRAM Policy J-102, Work/Job Programs The facility administrator shall develop policies and procedures regarding the fair and consistent assignment of youth to work programs. Work assigned to a youth shall ☒ ☐ ☐ be meaningful, constructive and related to vocational training or increasing a youth's sense of responsibility. Work programs shall not be imposed as a disciplinary measure 1374 VISITING Policy J-101, Visiting. The facility administrator shall develop and implement Visiting is scheduled for Saturday and written policies and procedures for visiting, that include Sunday each week. provisions for special visits. Youth shall be allowed to receive visits by parents, guardians or persons standing in loco parentis, and children of youth. Other family ☒ ☐ ☐ Special Visits, such as those with supportive adults, are approved by the Administration members, such as grandparents and siblings, and and are in addition to, and not a substitute supportive adults, may be allowed to visit with the for, weekly scheduled visits. approval of the facility administrator or designee, and in conjunction with the youth’s case plan or in the best interest of the youth. All visits shall occur at reasonable times, subject only to Policy J-101, Visiting. the limitations necessary to maintain order and security. Visitation shall not be denied solely based on the visitor’s criminal history. The staff shall determine in each case, whether the visitor’s criminal history represents a risk to ☒ ☐ ☐ the safety of youth or staff in the facility. Any denial of visitation or limitation on visitations shall be communicated to the youth, person denied and facility administrator. Opportunity for visitation shall be a minimum of two hours Policy J-101, Visiting. per week. Visits may be supervised, but conversations ☒ ☐ ☐ shall not be monitored unless there is a security or safety need. Provisions for special visits, in addition to the two-hour Policy J-101, Visiting. minimum and/or outside of the regular visiting hours, shall be accommodated as necessary and within the discretion of the facility administrator or designee. Family therapy ☒ ☐ ☐ and professional visits shall be accommodated outside the provisions of this regulation. Facilities may provide visitation opportunities outside of normal visiting hours to accommodate special visits. The facility may provide access to technology as an Policy J-101, Visiting. ☒ ☐ ☐ alternative, but not as a replacement, to in-person visiting. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 39 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1375 CORRESPONDENCE Policy J-111, Correspondence The facility administrator shall develop and implement The facility does not place limitations on the written policies and procedures for correspondence which ☒ ☐ ☐ volume of mail that a youth may send or provide that: receive. (a) there is no limitation on the volume of mail that youth may send or receive; (b) youth may send two letters per week postage free; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-111, Correspondence (c) youth may correspond confidentially with state and Policy J-111, Correspondence federal courts, any member of the State Bar or holder of public office, and the Board; however, authorized facility ☒ ☐ ☐ staff may open and inspect such mail only to search for contraband and in the presence of the youth; and, (d) incoming and outgoing mail, other than that described Policy J-111, Correspondence in (c), may be read by staff only when there is reasonable ☒ ☐ ☐ cause to believe facility safety and security, public safety, or youth safety is jeopardized. 1376 TELEPHONE ACCESS Policy J-107, Use of Telephone Youth 7B The administrator of each juvenile facility shall develop The youth interviewed stated they have the and implement written policies and procedures to provide ☒ ☐ ☐ opportunity to make one or more, and youth with access to telephone communications. sometimes many more, phone calls per day. 1377 ACCESS TO LEGAL SERVICES Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services The facility administrator shall develop written procedures to ensure the right of youth to have access to the courts ☒ ☐ ☐ and legal services. Such access shall include: (a) access, upon request by the youth, to licensed attorneys and their authorized representatives; (b) provision for confidential consultation with attorneys; Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services ☒ ☐ ☐ and, (c) unlimited postage free, legal correspondence and Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services ☒ ☐ ☐ cost-free telephone access as appropriate. 1390 DISCIPLINE Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall develop and implement The Behavior Modification System written policies and procedures for the discipline of youth clearly identifies the facility rules regarding that shall promote acceptable behavior; including the use expectations and consequences. The of positive behavior interventions and supports. Discipline procedure outlines how negative behaviors shall be imposed at the least restrictive level which can result in the loss of points and status. promotes the desired behavior and shall not include Regardless of status, youth receive all corporal punishment, group punishment, physical or required regulation components as they psychological degradation. relate to education, programming, and other Deprivation of the following is not permitted: ☒ ☐ ☐ rights for all conditions of confinement. When youth pose a threat to the safety and security of the facility, staff continue to promote reintegration with all programs and activities as soon as possible. Youth understand expected behaviors and work to promote and advance throughout the day. Sanctions remind youth of the rules, and major incidents are rare. (a) bed and bedding; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 40 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) daily shower, access to drinking fountain, toilet and Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ personal hygiene items, and clean clothing; (c) full nutrition; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (d) contact with parent or attorney; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (e) exercise; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (f) medical services and counseling; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (g) religious services; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (h) clean and sanitary living conditions; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (i) the right to send and receive mail; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (j) education; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (k) rehabilitative programming. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall establish rules of conduct Policy I-101, Discipline Process and disciplinary penalties to guide the conduct of youth. Such rules and penalties shall include both major Policy I-103, Behavior Management System. violations and minor violations, be stated simply and The facility has an incentive program for all ☒ ☐ ☐ affirmatively, and be made available to all youth. Provision youth in custody. shall be made to provide accessible information to youth with disabilities, limited English proficiency, or limited literacy. 1391 DISCIPLINE PROCESS Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall develop and implement Documentation involving the discipline written policies and procedures for the administration of process for major rule violations was discipline which shall include, but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ reviewed; youth are provided with a due (a) designation of personnel authorized to impose process hearing as required by regulation, discipline for violation of rules; which is documented and administratively reviewed by the Program Manager. (b) prohibiting discipline to be delegated to any youth; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (c) definition of major and minor rule violations and their Policy I-101, Discipline Process consequences, and due process requirements; Policy I-103, Behavior Management System. ☒ ☐ ☐ Level 1 and 2 violations are considered minor violations. Level 3 and 4 violations are major violations. (d) trauma-informed approaches and positive behavior Policy I-101, Discipline Process interventions; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-103, Behavior Management System (e) minor rule violations may be handled informally by Policy I-103, Behavior Management System counseling, advising the youth of expected conduct imposing a minor consequence. Discipline shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ accompanied by written documentation and a policy of review and appeal to a supervisor; and, 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 41 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (f) major rule violations and the discipline process shall Policy I-101, Discipline Process be documented and require the following: (1) written notice of violation prior to a hearing; A review of due process documentation was consistent with regulation requirements, the situation surrounding the rule violation(s), and the appropriate utilization of sanctions. ☒ ☐ ☐ Staff were able to articulate the nature of the violation and the appropriate consequences within the behavior management grid. Administrative staff review often resulted in a meeting with the youth regarding the sanction. (2) accommodations provided to youth with Policy I-101, Discipline Process disabilities, limited literacy, and English language ☒ ☐ ☐ learners; (3) hearing by a person who is not a party to the Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ incident; (4) opportunity for the youth to be heard, present Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ evidence and testimony; (5) provision for youth to be assisted by staff in the Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ hearing process; Policy I-101, Discipline Process (6) provision for administrative review. ☒ ☐ ☐ (g) violations that result in a removal from camp or Policy I-04, Bear Creek Academy (BCA) commitment program, but not a return to court, will follow Programs. A policy for SYTF youth is being the due process provisions in subsection (e) above. ☒ ☐ ☐ developed, which will mirror the Bear Creek Academy Programs policy. 1410 MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES. Policy J-105, Health Services Policy D-110, Exposure to Bodily Fluids The health administrator/responsible physician, in Policy G-104, Procedures for Intoxicated cooperation with the facility administrator and the local health officer, shall develop written policies and ☒ ☐ ☐ Youth procedures to address the identification, treatment, Wellpath Global Policy and Procedure control and follow-up management of communicable Reference 71488: Communicable Disease diseases. The policies and procedures shall address, but not be limited to: Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (a) Intake health screening procedures; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (b) Identification of relevant symptoms; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (c) Referral for medical evaluation; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (d) Treatment responsibilities during detention; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 42 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control (e) Coordination with public and private community- ☒ ☐ ☐ based resources for follow-up treatment; Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 6.5 Discharge Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (f) Applicable reporting requirements; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 6.4.1 Reporting Wellpath Global Policy and Procedure (g) Strategies for handling disease outbreaks. ☒ ☐ ☐ Reference 71488: Communicable Disease The policies and procedures shall be updated as Per Wellpath Health Services Administrator necessary to reflect communicable disease priorities Mee Hao, the agency updates policies and identified by the local health officer and currently ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures as needed to ensure the recommended public health interventions. protection of the youth and staff/agency partners. 1433 REQUESTS FOR HEALTH CARE SERVICES Policy J-105, Health Services The health administrator, in cooperation with the facility While medical and behavioral request forms administrator, shall develop policy and procedures to were identified in their locations on every establish a daily routine for youth to convey requests for unit, the youth interviewed indicated that emergency and non-emergency medical, dental and they typically just told staff, and staff then behavioral/mental health care services. contacted medical or behavioral health services for them via telephone or radio. ☒ ☐ ☐ However, the forms are present and do allow the youth to make their request confidential, should they wish to do so. Interviews with Medical and Behavioral Health Services confirmed both the opportunity for confidentiality and the option for youth to request services via staff request. 1480 STANDARD FACILITY CLOTHING ISSUE Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange The youth’s personal clothing, undergarments and The clothing worn by the youth was footwear may be substituted for the institutional clothing observed during interviews to be in good and footwear specified in this regulation. The facility has repair, free of stains, and fitting appropriately. the primary responsibility to provide clothing and The youth interviewed stated that should footwear. Clothing provisions shall ensure that: ☒ ☐ ☐ they need new underwear, clothing, or shoes, they would ask staff, and they would receive the items in compliance with this section. (a) Clothing is clean, reasonably fitted, durable, easily Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ laundered, in good repair, and free of holes and tears. (b) The standard issue of climatically suitable clothing Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange for youth shall consist of but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ (1) Socks and serviceable footwear; (2) Outer garments; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange (3) New non-disposable underwear which shall Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ remain with the youth throughout their stay, and; (4) Undergarments, that are freshly laundered and Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ free of stains, including tee shirts and bras. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 43 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) Clothing is laundered at the temperature required by Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange local ordinances for the commercial laundries and dried ☒ ☐ ☐ completely in a mechanical dryer or other laundry method approved by the local health officer. (d) Suitable clothing is issued to pregnant youth. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange 1482 CLOTHING EXCHANGE Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange The facility administrator shall develop and implement Interviews with the youth confirmed that they written policies and site-specific procedures for the receive laundered clothing daily. cleaning and scheduled exchange of clothing. Unless work, climatic conditions, or illness necessitates more ☒ ☐ ☐ frequent exchange, outer garments, except for footwear, shall be exchanged at least once each week. Tee shirts, bras, and underwear shall be exchanged daily; youth shall receive their own underwear back at exchange. 1484 CONTROL OF VERMIN IN YOUTH’S Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange PERSONAL CLOTHING There shall be written policies and site-specific procedures developed and implemented by the facility administrator to control the contamination and/or spread ☒ ☐ ☐ of vermin and ecto-parasites in all youth’s personal clothing. Infested clothing shall be cleaned or stored in a closed container so as to eradicate or stop the spread of the vermin. 1485 ISSUE OF PERSONAL CARE ITEMS Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene There shall be written policies and site-specific Interviews with youth confirm they are procedures developed and implemented by the facility receiving all required personal care items. administrator for the availability of personal hygiene ☒ ☐ ☐ items. Each female youth shall be provided with sanitary napkins, panty liners and tampons as requested. Each youth to be held over 24 hours shall be provided with the following personal care items; (a) Toothbrush; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (b) Toothpaste; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (c) Soap; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (d) Comb; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (e) Shaving implements; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (f) Deodorant; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (g) Lotion; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (h) Shampoo; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (i) Post-shower conditioning hair products. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Youth shall not be required to share any personal care Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene items listed in items (a) through (d). Liquid soap provided through a common dispenser is permitted. Youth shall not share disposable razors. Double edged safety razors, electric razors, and other shaving instruments ☒ ☐ ☐ capable of breaking the skin, when shared among youth, shall be disinfected between individual uses by the method prescribed by the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology in Sections 979 and 980, Chapter 9, Title 16, California Code of Regulations. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 44 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1486 PERSONAL HYGIENE Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene There shall be written policies and site specific procedures developed and implemented by the facility administrator for showering/bathing and brushing of ☒ ☐ ☐ teeth. Youth shall be permitted to shower/bathe up on assignment to a housing unit and on a daily basis thereafter and given an opportunity to brush their teeth after each meal. 1487 SHAVING Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Youth shall have access to a razor daily, unless their Interviews with the youth confirmed that they appearance must be maintained for reasons of are offered the opportunity to shave every identification in Court. All youth shall have equal ☒ ☐ ☐ day. opportunity to shave face and body hair. The facility administrator may suspend this requirement in relation to youth who are considered to be a danger to themselves or others. 1488 HAIR CARE SERVICES Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Hair care services shall be available in all juvenile facilities. Youth shall receive hair care services monthly. Equipment shall be cleaned and disinfected after each ☒ ☐ ☐ Interviews with the youth and staff haircut or procedure, by a method approved by the State confirmed that a barber visits the facility Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. once a week and provides haircuts as requested. 1500 STANDARD BEDDING AND LINEN ISSUE Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen Clean laundered, suitable bedding and linens, in good repair, shall be provided for each youth entering a living Interviews with youth confirm they receive area who is expected to remain overnight, shall include, ☒ ☐ ☐ clean linen, including their blankets, each but not be limited to: week. Additionally, they can receive clean linen or blankets if needed before exchange day. (a) One mattress or mattress-pillow combination which Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen meets the requirements of Section 1502 of these ☒ ☐ ☐ regulations; (b) One pillow and a pillow case unless provided for in Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen ☒ ☐ ☐ (a) above; (c) One mattress cover and a sheet or two sheets; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen (d) One towel; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen (e) One blanket or more, up on request ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen 1501 BEDDING LINEN EXCHANGE Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen The facility administrator shall develop and implement Interviews with youth confirm they are site specific written policies and procedures for the exchanging linen, including their blankets, scheduled exchange of laundered bedding and linen ☒ ☐ ☐ each week. They can receive clean linen or issued to each youth housed. Washable items such as blankets if needed before exchange day. sheets, mattress covers, pillow cases and towels shall be exchanged for clean replacement at least once each week. The covering blanket shall be cleaned or laundered once Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen ☒ ☐ ☐ a month. 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 45 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1510 FACILITY SANITATION, SAFETY AND Policy G-119, Facility Sanitation, MAINTENANCE Maintenance and Safety. The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and site-specific procedures for the maintenance of an acceptable level of cleanliness, repair and safety throughout the facility. The plan shall provide for a regular schedule of housekeeping tasks, ☒ ☐ ☐ equipment, including restraint devices, and physical plant maintenance and inspections to identify and correct unsanitary or unsafe conditions or work practices in a timely manner. The use of chemicals shall be done in accordance to the product label and Safety Data Sheet which may include the use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). REVIEW OF NON-REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS GRANT FUNDING OR CODE REFERENCE YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE - COMMENTS JUVENILE PROBATION AND CAMPS FUNDING (JPCF) (Camps Only) The programs/services identified on the JPCF Camp Not applicable. Eligibility Form are being provided at the facility. (Refer ☐ ☒ ☐ to the JPCF Camp Eligibility Form) 7328 Merced SYTF CI PRO 25-26 Page 46 of 46 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 JUVENILE HALLS, SPECIAL PURPOSE JUVENILE HALLS AND CAMPS Board of State and Community Corrections PROCEDURES CHECKLIST1 BSCC Code: 7330 FACILITY NAME: Bear Creek Youth Academy Camp FACILITY TYPE: Camp PERSON(S) INTERVIEWED: Ben Rodriguez, Deputy Chief Probation Officer; Jennifer Medeiros, Division Manager Supervising Juvenile Institutions Officer Lavizzi; Juvenile Institutions Officer III Jamison; Juvenile Institutions Officer II Chavez; Deputy Probation Officer Munoz; Mee Hao, Wellpath Health Service Administrator; Adriana Garcia, Program Manager, Geo Re-entry Services; Kristen Concepcion, Principal, Merced County Office of Education (MCOE); Christian Quirarte, Job Development Training Technician, Merced County Office of Education (MCOE); Cameia Richardson, Associate Clinical Social Worker, Wellpath Behavioral Health; Seng Yang, Associate Clinical Social Worker, Wellpath Behavioral Health; male and female youth, ages 14 to 20. FIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Eric Raley DATE: October 20, 2025, to October 24, 2025 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1313 COUNTY INSPECTION AND EVALUATION OF Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph A. 9B BUILDING AND GROUNDS The following local inspection reports are for On an annual basis, or as otherwise required by law, each the Iris Garret Juvenile Justice Correctional juvenile facility administrator shall obtain a documented Complex (IGJJCC), which includes the inspection and evaluation from the following: Juvenile Hall, the Bear Creek Academy ☒ Camp, and the SYTF Program. ☐ ☐ Issued by Merced County Community & Economic Development, Building and Safety (a) county building inspector or person designated by the Division, Charles Mendenhall, Inspection Board of Supervisors to approve building safety; Supervisor, May 19, 2025. (b) fire authority having jurisdiction, including fire Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph B. 10B clearance as required by Health and Safety Code Section 13146.1(a) and (b); Inspected by Merced County Fire ☒ Department in cooperation with Cal Fire, ☐ ☐ inspected by FAE Morgan Alexander on August 15, 2025. 1 This document is intended for use as a tool during the inspection process; this worksheet may not contain each Title 15 regulation that is required. Additionally, many regulations on this worksheet are SUMMARIES of the regulation; the text on this worksheet may not contain the entire text of the actual regulation. Please refer to the complete California Code of Regulations, Title 15, Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 5 for the complete list and text of regulations. 2 Excerpts from facility policies, procedures, or other reference documents are indicated in italicized text. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 1 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) local health officer, inspection in accordance with Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph C. 11B Health and Safety Code Section 101045; Merced County Community & Economic Development Department Division of Environmental Health Evaluated on March 26, 2025, by Lao Yang, Environmental Health Specialist III, and Taylor Rios Environmental Health Specialist II. No deficiencies noted. Nutritional Health Evaluation evaluated by Michael Helwig, Registered Dietitian, on March 28, 2025. Deficiencies were noted and resolved the same day, per DCPO Ben ☒ Rodriguez. ☐ ☐ Medical Evaluation – evaluated by April Brewer, Supervising PHN, Linda Smith, Director of Nursing, and Ignacio Santana, Assistant Health Officer, on March 26, 2025. Upon reviewing the evaluation, all sections were marked either yes (in compliance) or n/a. Mental Health was evaluated by Leticia Servin, BHRS Program Manager, and Alma Avila, BHRS Program Manager, on March 26, 2025; no deficiencies were noted. (d) county superintendent of schools on the adequacy of Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph D. 12B educational services and facilities as required in Section 1370; ☒ Education Program Evaluation conducted by ☐ ☐ Kelli Sharpe, Program Administrator, on February 14, 2025. No deficiencies noted. (e) juvenile court as required by Section 209 of the Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph E. 13B Welfare and Institutions Code; and, Judicial Inspection conducted by the ☒ ☐ ☐ Honorable Paul C. Lo, Presiding Judge, on December 17, 2024. (f) the Juvenile Justice Commission as required by Policy C-1, Subsection IV, Paragraph F. 14B Section 229 of the Welfare and Institutions Code or Probation Commission as required by Section 240 of the JJDPC Inspectors Jermaine Paster, Katalina Welfare and Institutions Code. ☒ Zambrano, Joseph Hoffar, and Jacqueline ☐ ☐ Yanez inspected the facility on December 6, 2024, and December 7, 2024, and determined the facility is in compliance. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 2 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1320 APPOINTMENT AND QUALIFICATIONS 15B Policy D-101 Note: Compliance with this section is determined by receipt of the Chief Probation Officer’s certification letter The elements of this regulation are confirming that all elements of regulation are met. addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on (a) Appointment January 27, 2025. In each juvenile facility there shall be a superintendent, ☒ ☐ ☐ director or facility manager in charge of its program and employees. Such superintendent, director, facility Policy D-101, Subsection II. manager and other employees of the facility shall be appointed by the facility administrator pursuant to Deputy Chief Probation Officer Ben applicable provisions of law. Rodriguez has been appointed as the Facility Superintendent. (b) Employee Qualifications Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph D. Each facility shall: (1) recruit and hire employees who possess ☒ knowledge, skills and abilities appropriate to their job ☐ ☐ classification and duties in accordance with applicable civil service or merit system rules; (2) require a medical evaluation and physical Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph C examination including tuberculosis screening test and evaluation for immunity to contagious illnesses of ☒ ☐ ☐ childhood (i.e., diphtheria, rubeola, rubella, and mumps); (3) adhere to the minimum standards for the selection Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph A and training requirements adopted by the Board ☒ ☐ ☐ pursuant to Section 6035 of the Penal Code; and (4) conduct a criminal records review, on each new Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph B employee, and psychological examination in ☒ accordance with Section 1031 of the Government ☐ ☐ Code. (c) Contract personnel, volunteers, and other non- Policy D-101, Subsection III, Paragraph F employees of the facility, who may be present at the facility, shall have such clearance and qualifications as ☒ may be required by law, and their presence at the facility ☐ ☐ shall be subject to the approval and control of the facility manager. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 3 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1321 STAFFING Policy D-102 Each juvenile facility shall: At the time of inspection, the Iris Garrett (a) have an adequate number of personnel sufficient to Juvenile Justice Correctional Complex, which carry out the overall facility operation and its includes the Juvenile Hall, the Camp, and the programming, to provide for safety and security of youth SYTF, was budgeted for seven Supervising and staff, and meet established standards and Juvenile Institution Officers (SJIO) and 44 JIO regulations; I/II/III Youth Supervision Staff. At the time of inspection, there were nine vacancies in the JIO I/II/III series. The JIO shift patterns include 10- and 12-hour rotations, with additional coverage from six ☒ ☐ ☐ DPO’s assigned to the facility in a hybrid role, as well as voluntary overtime offered to other sworn staff. This staffing level allows for youth supervision staff to concentrate on safety and security and complete their day-to-day tasks. Interviews were conducted with facility staff and youth to assess whether staffing levels were sufficient to carry out facility operations and meet required programming standards. Based on observations and interviews, the facility is in compliance with this requirement. (b) ensure that no required services shall be denied Policy D-102 because of insufficient numbers of staff on duty absent ☒ ☐ ☐ exigent circumstances; (c) have a sufficient number of supervisory level staff to Policy D-102, paragraph II ensure adequate supervision of all staff members; The correctional complex, as a whole, has seven budgeted Supervising Juvenile ☒ ☐ ☐ Institution Officer positions, at least one of whom is always present and has oversight of all of types of youth in custody. (d) have a clearly identified person on duty at all times Policy D-102, paragraph III who is responsible for operations and activities and has ☒ completed the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course ☐ ☐ and PC 832 training; (e) have at least one staff member present on each living Policy D-102, paragraph IV ☒ unit whenever there are youth in the living unit; ☐ ☐ (f) have sufficient food service personnel relative to the Food services are provided by Aramark via number and security of living units, including staff qualified the Merced County Jail, located next to the and available to: plan menus meeting nutritional facility. requirements of youth; provide kitchen supervision; direct ☒ food preparation and servings; conduct related training ☐ ☐ programs for culinary staff; and maintain necessary records; or, a facility may serve food that meets nutritional standards prepared by an outside source; 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 4 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (g) have sufficient administrative, clerical, recreational, Policy D-102, paragraph IX medical, dental, mental health, building maintenance, transportation, control room, facility security and other In addition to staff assigned to the housing support staff for the efficient management of the facility, units, the facility provides an appropriate and to ensure that youth supervision staff shall not be number of staff to operate the control room, diverted from supervising youth; and, intake, and other functions. ☒ ☐ ☐ Medical services are provided 24 hours a day, and behavioral health services are provided by Wellpath Monday through Friday, with additional coverage available via on-call. (h) assign sufficient youth supervision staff to provide Policy D-102, paragraph VI continuous wide awake supervision of youth, subject to temporary variations in staff assignments to meet special ☒ ☐ ☐ program needs. Staffing shall be in compliance with a minimum youth-staff ratio for the following facility types: (1) Juvenile Halls Policy D-102, paragraph VI, A (A) during the hours that youth are awake, one ☐ ☐ ☒ wide-awake youth supervision staff member on duty for each 10 youth in detention; Not applicable. (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their Not applicable. room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☐ ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ youth in detention; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff Not applicable. members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in detention, unless an ☐ ☒ arrangement has been made for backup support ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; and, (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on Not applicable. duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☐ ☒ ☐ the facility. (E) personnel with primary responsibility for other Not applicable. duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☐ ☒ ☐ kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. (2) Special Purpose Juvenile Halls Not applicable. (A) during hours that youth are awake, one wide- ☒ awake youth supervision staff member on duty for ☐ ☐ each 10 youth in detention; (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ ☐ youth in detention; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in detention, unless an ☒ arrangement has been made for backup support ☐ ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; and, (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 5 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (E) personnel with primary responsibility for other duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☒ ☐ ☐ kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. (3) Camps Policy D-102, paragraph VI, B (A) during the hours that youth are awake, one wide-awake youth supervision staff member on During the dates of inspection, the average ☒ duty for each 15 youth in the camp population; ☐ ☐ population in Camp was twelve, with one female and eleven males. (B) during the hours that youth are confined to their Policy D-102, paragraph VII, A room for the purpose of sleeping, one wide-awake ☒ youth supervision staff member on duty for each 30 ☐ ☐ youth present in the facility; (C) at least two wide-awake youth supervision staff Policy D-102, paragraph VII, B members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of youth in residence, unless ☒ arrangements have been made for backup support ☐ ☐ services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; (D) at least one youth supervision staff member on Policy D-102, paragraph VIII duty who is the same gender as youth housed in ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility; (E) in addition to the minimum staff to youth ratio Policy D-102, paragraph V required in (h)(3)(A)-(B), consideration shall be given to the size, design, and location of the camp; types of youth committed to the camp; and the ☒ ☐ ☐ function of the camp in determining the level of supervision necessary to maintain the safety and welfare of youth and staff; (F) personnel with primary responsibility for other Policy D-102, paragraph IX duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, ☒ ☐ ☐ farm, forestry, kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as youth supervision staff positions. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 6 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1322 YOUTH SUPERVISION STAFF ORIENTATION Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and AND TRAINING Training. (a) Prior to assuming any responsibilities each youth The elements of this regulation are supervision staff member shall be properly oriented to addressed in a memorandum completed by their duties, including: Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on (1) youth supervision duties; January 27, 2025. All full-time youth supervision staff are required to complete training, including the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course, in compliance with BSCC Standards and Training for Corrections. Prior to assuming any responsibilities, each youth supervision staff member will receive at least 160 hours ☒ ☐ ☐ of training on a variety of topics. Supervisors will complete an 80-hour Standards and Training for Corrections approved Supervision Course, and Managers will complete an 80-hour Standards and Training for Corrections approved Management Course. The Standards and Training for Corrections (STC) memorandum from BSCC, provided to Chief Probation Officer Henn and dated September 18th, 2025, stated the agency is in compliance with training requirements. Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (2) scope of decisions they shall make; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (3) the identity of their supervisor; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (4) the identity of persons who are responsible to Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and them; ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (5) persons to contact for decisions that are beyond Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and their responsibility; and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ (6) ethical responsibilities. Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 7 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) Prior to assuming any responsibility for the supervision Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and of youth, each youth supervision staff member shall Training receive a minimum of 40 hours of facility-specific orientation, including: The elements of this regulation are (1) individual and group supervision techniques; addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. ☒ ☐ ☐ The policy requires at least 160 hours of facility-specific training. Mandated Training is specified according to classification. The curriculum provides standards in a format that allows new officers to understand the expectations and responsibilities of their job. (2) regulations and policies relating to discipline and Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and rights of youth pursuant to law and the provisions of ☒ Training ☐ ☐ this chapter; Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (3) basic health, sanitation and safety measures; ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (4) suicide prevention and response to suicide Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ attempts ☐ ☐ Training (5) policies regarding use of force, de-escalation Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and techniques, chemical agents, mechanical and ☒ Training ☐ ☐ physical restraints; (6) review of policies and procedures referencing Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ trauma and trauma-informed approaches; ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (7) procedures to follow in the event of emergencies; ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (8) routine security measures, including facility Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ perimeter and grounds; ☐ ☐ Training (9) crisis intervention and mental health referrals to Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and ☒ mental health services; ☐ ☐ Training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and (10) documentation; and ☒ ☐ ☐ Training (11) fire/life safety training Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and Training ☒ ☐ ☐ 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 8 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) Prior to assuming sole supervision of youth, each Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and youth supervision staff member shall successfully Training complete the requirements of the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course pursuant to Penal Code Section The elements of this regulation are 6035. addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. ☒ ☐ ☐ (d) Prior to exercising the powers of a peace officer youth Policy D-103, Employee Orientation and supervision staff shall successfully complete training Training pursuant to Section 830 et seq. of the Penal Code. The elements of this regulation are ☒ ☐ ☐ addressed in a memorandum completed by Chief Probation Officer Chris Henn on January 27, 2025. 1323 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY Policy D-102, Staffing, Subsection X Whenever there is a youth in a juvenile facility, there shall be at least one wide awake person on duty at all times ☒ ☐ ☐ who meets the training standards established by the Board for general fire and life safety which relate specifically to the facility. 1324 POLICY AND PROCEDURES MANUAL Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual All facility administrators shall develop, publish, and The department continues its transition to implement a manual of written policies and procedures Lexipol for its policies and procedures; an that address, at a minimum, all regulations that are estimated date for the completion of this applicable to the facility. Such a manual shall be made process has not been provided. available to all employees, reviewed by all employees, ☒ ☐ ☐ and shall be administratively reviewed at a minimum every two years, and updated, as necessary. Those records relating to the standards and requirements set forth in these regulations shall be accessible to the Board on request. The manual shall include: (a) table of organization, including channels of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ communications and a description of job classifications; ☐ ☐ (b) responsibility of the probation department, purpose of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual programs, relationship to the juvenile court, the Juvenile Justice/Delinquency Prevention Commission or ☒ Probation Committee, probation staff, school personnel ☐ ☐ and other agencies that are involved in juvenile facility programs; (c) responsibilities of all employees; Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ ☐ ☐ (d) initial orientation and training program for employees; Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ ☐ ☐ 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 9 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) initial orientation, including safety and security issues Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual and anti-discrimination policies, for support staff, contract ☒ employees, school, mental/behavioral health and medical ☐ ☐ staff, program providers and volunteers; (f) maintenance of record-keeping, statistics and Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual communication system to ensure: ☒ ☐ ☐ (1) efficient operation of the juvenile facility; (2) legal and proper care of youth; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (3) maintenance of individual youth's records; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (4) supply of information to the juvenile court and Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☒ those authorized by the court or by the law; and, ☐ ☐ (5) release of information regarding youth. ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (g) ethical responsibilities; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (h) trauma-informed approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (i) culturally responsive approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (j) gender responsive approaches; ☒ Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual ☐ ☐ (k) a non-discrimination provision that provides that all Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual youth within the facility shall have fair and equal access to all available services, placement, care, treatment, and benefits, and provides that no person shall be subject to discrimination or harassment on the basis of actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, ☒ ☐ ☐ national origin, immigration status, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, mental or physical disability, or HIV status, including restrictive housing or classification decisions based solely on any of the above mentioned categories; (l) storage and maintenance requirements for any Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual chemical agents related security devices, and weapons ☒ ☐ ☐ and ammunition, where applicable; (m) establishment of procedures for collection of Medi- Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual Cal eligibility information and enrollment of eligible youth; and, ☒ Policy J-112, Medi-Cal Eligibility and ☐ ☐ Suspension of Benefits (n) establishment of a policy that prohibits all forms of Policy D-104, Policy and Procedures Manual sexual abuse, sexual assault and sexual harassment. The policy shall include an approach to preventing, detecting and responding to such conduct and any ☒ ☐ ☐ retaliation for reporting such conduct, as well as a provision for reporting such conduct by youth, staff or a third party. 1325 FIRE SAFETY PLAN Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan The facility administrator shall consult with the local fire department having jurisdiction over the facility, or with the State Fire Marshal, in developing a plan for fire safety ☒ ☐ ☐ which shall include, but not be limited to: (a) a fire prevention plan to be included as part of the manual of policy and procedures; 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 10 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) monthly fire and life safety inspections by facility staff Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan; records were with two-year retention of the inspection record; provided demonstrating compliance with ☒ ☐ ☐ regulation. (c) fire prevention inspections as required by Health and Refer to Section 1313, Subsection (b), Local ☒ Safety Code Section 13146.1(a) and (b); ☐ ☐ County Inspections (d) an evacuation plan; Policy H-101, Emergency Procedures for ☒ ☐ ☐ Evacuation (e) documented fire drills not less than quarterly; Policy H-107 Fire Safety Plan, Fire and Evacuation Drills records provided ☒ for review; these were typically completed ☐ ☐ monthly, exceeding compliance with this regulation. (f) a written plan for the emergency housing of youth in Policy H-101, Emergency Procedures for ☒ the case of fire; and, ☐ ☐ Evacuation (g) development of a fire suppression pre-plan in Policy H-117, Fire Suppression Pre-Plan ☒ cooperation with the local fire department. ☐ ☐ 1326 SECURITY REVIEW Policy F-101 Key Control Policy F-102 Security Issues Each facility administrator shall develop policies and Policy F-103 Security Electronics procedures to annually review, evaluate, and document Policy H-118 Review of Emergency security of the facility. The review and evaluation shall Procedures include internal and external security, including, but not ☒ limited to, key control, equipment, and staff training. ☐ ☐ A letter confirming the review and evaluation of internal and external security as required by this section was completed by DCPO Ben Rodriguez on January 27, 2025. 1327 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Policy H-102, Emergency Procedures and 0B Communication Codes The facility administrator shall develop facility-specific policies and procedures for emergencies that shall A memo confirming the review of emergency include, but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures as required by this section was (a) escape, disturbances, and the taking of hostages; completed by DCPO Ben Rodriguez on January 27, 2025. (b) civil disturbance, active shooter and terrorist attack; ☒ Policy H-102 ☐ ☐ (c) fire and natural disasters; ☒ Policy H-101 ☐ ☐ Policy H-107 (d) periodic testing of emergency equipment; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-111 (e) emergency evacuation of the facility; and ☒ Policy H-101 ☐ ☐ (f) a program to provide all youth supervision staff with Policy H-118 ☒ an annual review of emergency procedures. ☐ ☐ 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 11 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1328 SAFETY CHECKS Policy G-118, Safety Checks 1B The facility administrator shall develop and implement A random review of room safety check audits policy and procedures that provide for direct visual for each month between January and observation of youth at a minimum of every 15 minutes, September 2025 determined that the majority at random or varied intervals during hours when youth of safety checks typically varied between ten are asleep or when youth are in their rooms, confined in holding cells or confined to their bed in a dormitory. ☒ ☐ ☐ minutes and thirteen minutes. Of the safety checks reviewed, camera audits identified Supervision is not replaced, but may be supplemented one late check, which was addressed, and by, an audio/visual electronic surveillance system the staff was remediated. designed to detect overt, aggressive or assaultive behavior and to summon aid in emergencies. All safety checks shall be documented with the actual time the check is completed. 1329 SUICIDE PREVENTION PLAN G-109 Suicide Identification Program 2B The facility administrator, in collaboration with the As of the date of inspection, the Camp healthcare and behavioral/mental health administrators, section of the facility had zero youth who shall plan and implement written policies and procedures had been on suicide prevention plans which delineate a Suicide Prevention Plan. The plan ☒ ☐ ☐ between January to September 2025. shall consider the needs of youth experiencing past or current trauma. Suicide prevention responses shall be respectful and in the least invasive manner consistent with the level of suicide risk. The plan shall include the following elements: (a) Suicide prevention training as required in Section Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program 1322, Youth Supervision Staff Orientation, and Training and the Juvenile Corrections Officer Core Course. Per the Individual Training Plan, youth ☒ ☐ ☐ supervision staff attend training annually on suicide prevention. (b) Screening, Identification Assessment and Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program Precautionary Protocols (1) All youth shall be screened for risk of suicide at The facility uses the MAYSI-2 Instrument to ☒ intake and as needed during detention. ☐ ☐ assess the risk of suicide for all youth at admission. (2) All youth supervision staff who perform intake Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program processes shall be trained in screening youth for risk ☒ ☐ ☐ of suicide. (3) All youth who have been identified during the Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program intake screening process to be at risk of suicide shall ☒ be referred to behavioral/mental health staff for a ☐ ☐ suicide risk assessment. (4) Precautionary protocols shall be developed to Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ensure the youth’s safety pending the ☒ ☐ ☐ behavioral/mental health assessment. (c) Referral process to behavioral/mental health staff for Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ assessment and/or services. ☐ ☐ (d) Procedures for monitoring of youth identified at risk Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ for suicide. ☐ ☐ (e) Safety Interventions Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) Procedures to address intervention protocols for youth identified at risk for suicide which may ☒ ☐ ☐ include, but are not limited to: (A) Housing consideration 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 12 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (B) Treatment strategies including trauma- Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ informed approaches ☐ ☐ (2) Procedures to instruct youth supervision staff how Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☒ to respond to youth who exhibit suicidal behaviors. ☐ ☐ (f) Communication Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) The intake process shall include communication with the arresting officer and family guardians ☒ ☐ ☐ regarding the youth’s past or present suicidal ideations, behaviors or attempts. (2) Procedures for clear and current information Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program sharing about youth at risk for suicide with youth ☒ supervision, healthcare, and behavioral/mental ☐ ☐ health staff. (g) Debriefing of Critical Incidents Related to Suicides or Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program Attempts (1) Process for administrative review of the ☒ ☐ ☐ circumstances and responses proceeding, during and after the critical incident. (2) Process for a debriefing event with affected staff. ☒ Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☐ ☐ (3) Process for a debriefing event with affected youth. ☒ Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program ☐ ☐ (h) Documentation Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program (1) Documentation processes shall be developed to ☒ ☐ ☐ ensure compliance with this regulation Youth identified at risk for suicide shall not be denied the Policy G-109, Suicide Identification Program opportunity to participate in facility programs, services and activities which are available to other non-suicidal youth, unless deemed necessary for the safety of the ☒ youth or security of the facility. Any deprivation of ☐ ☐ programs, services or activities for youth at risk of suicide shall be documented and approved by the facility manager. 1340 REPORTING OF LEGAL ACTIONS No legal actions have been submitted to the Board during this inspection period. Each facility shall submit to the Board a letter of notification on each legal action, pertaining to conditions ☒ ☐ ☐ of confinement, filed against persons or legal entities responsible for juvenile facility operation. 1341 DEATH AND SERIOUS ILLNESS OR INJURY Policy H-108, Death of a Youth OF A YOUTH WHILE DETAINED (1) Death of a Youth. (a) The facility administrator, in cooperation with the health administrator and the behavioral/mental health director, shall develop written policies and ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures in the event of the death of a youth while detained, which include notifications to necessary parties, which may include the Juvenile Court, the parent, guardian or person standing in loco parentis and the youth’s attorney of record. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 13 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) The health administrator, in cooperation with the Policy H-108, Death of a Youth facility administrator, shall develop written policies and procedures to assure there is a medical and operational review of every in-custody death of a youth. The review team shall include the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ administrator and/or facility manager, the health administrator, the responsible physician and other health care and supervision staff who are relevant to the incident. (c) The administrator of the facility shall provide to Policy H-108, Death of a Youth the Board a copy of the report submitted to the Attorney General under Government Code Section There have been no reports of deaths of ☒ 12525. A copy of the report shall be submitted to the ☐ ☐ youths while detained, provided to the Board Board within 10 calendar days after the death. in this inspection period. (d) Upon receipt of a report of the death of a youth Policy H-108, Death of a Youth from the administrator, the Board may within 30 calendar days inspect and evaluate the juvenile facility, jail, lockup or court holding facility pursuant to ☒ ☐ ☐ the provisions of this subchapter. Any inquiry made by the Board shall be limited to the standards and requirements set forth in these regulations. (2) Serious Illness or Injury of Youth. Policy H-103, Medical Emergencies (a) The facility administrator, in cooperation with the health administrator, shall develop written policies and procedures for the notification to necessary ☒ parties, which may include the Juvenile Court, the ☐ ☐ parent, guardian or person standing in loco parentis and the youth’s attorney of record in the case of a serious illness or injury of a youth. 1342 POPULATION ACCOUNTING The facility reports the required population 8B and profile statistics to BSCC. Each juvenile facility shall submit required population and profile survey reports to the Board within 10 working ☒ ☐ ☐ days after the end of each reporting period, in a format to be provided by the Board. 1343 JUVENILE FACILITY CAPACITY (EXCERPT) Policy E-401, Facility Capacity When the number of youth detained in a living unit of a juvenile facility exceeds its rated capacity for more than ☒ ☐ ☐ fifteen (15) calendar days in a month, the facility administrator shall provide a crowding report to the Board in a format provided by the Board. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 14 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1350 ADMITTANCE PROCEDURES Policy G-103, Admission Procedures The facility administrator shall develop and implement Assessments and screenings of the youth written policies and procedures for admittance of youth are typically completed when admitted to the that emphasize respectful and humane engagement Juvenile Hall portion of the facility; however, with youth and reflect that the admission process may should a Camp youth enter the facility from be traumatic to youth who may have already another location, such as another county, experienced trauma. Policies shall be trauma-informed, the same screening tools would apply. culturally relevant, and responsive to the language and These include an Intake screening form, literacy needs of youth. In addition to the requirements which identifies medical and mental health of Sections 1324 and 1430 of these regulations: information; the MAYSI-2, which focuses on community risk factors, including drug and ☒ alcohol use, anger, depression, and medical ☐ ☐ criteria and suicidal behaviors; the DRAI 2.0, which is the Detention Risk Assessment Instrument, a PREA advisement and a Wellpath Behavioral Health receiving screening. Intake staff receive training on engaging with youth during the admission process, understanding trauma-informed practices, and using the information obtained to determine unit classification. (a) the admittance process shall include: Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (1) Access to two free phone calls within one hour of ☒ admittance in accordance with the provisions of ☐ ☐ Welfare and Institution Code Section 627; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (2) Offer of a shower; ☒ Youth interviewed by BSCC staff affirmed ☐ ☐ being offered a shower upon admission. (3) Documented secure storage of personal Policy G-103, Admission Procedures ☒ belongings; ☐ ☐ Policy G-115, Food Service (4) Offer of food upon arrival; ☒ Youth interviewed by BSCC staff affirmed ☐ ☐ being offered food upon admission. (5) Screening for physical and behavioral health and Policy G-103, Admission safety issues, intellectual or developmental ☒ ☐ ☐ disabilities; (6) Screening for physical and developmental Policy G-103, Admission disabilities in accordance with Sections 1329, 1413, ☒ ☐ ☐ and 1430 of these regulations; (7) Contact with Regional Center for the Policy G-103, Admission, Subsection VI; the Developmentally Disabled for youth that are medical provider will contact the Regional suspected of or identified as having a ☒ Center. ☐ ☐ developmental disability, pursuant to Section 1413; and, (8) Procedures consistent with Section 1352.5. ☒ Policy G-103, Admission ☐ ☐ (b) juvenile hall administrators shall establish written Not applicable. criteria for detention that considers the least restrictive ☐ ☒ ☐ environment. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 15 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) juvenile camps and post-dispositional programs in Policy A-104, Legal Basis for Custody, juvenile halls shall develop policies and procedures that Subsection II, Bear Creek Academy (BCA) advise the youth of the estimated length of stay, inform Short Term Program, Subsection III, Bear them of program guidelines and provide written Creek Academy Long Term/Youth Treatment screening criteria for inclusion and exclusion from the ☒ Program, IV Secure Youth Treatment ☐ ☐ program. Program Policy G-103, subsection X (d) juvenile halls shall develop policies and procedures These procedures are incorporated in Policy that advise any committed youth of the estimated length I-04, Bear Creek Academy (BCA) Programs, ☒ of his/her stay. ☐ ☐ and are addressed in Policy J-114, Secure Track Program, for SYTF youth as well. 1350.5 SCREENING FOR THE RISK OF SEXUAL Policy G-103, Admission Procedures ABUSE Policy E-109, PREA The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures to reduce the risk of ☒ ☐ ☐ sexual abuse by or upon youth. The policy shall require facility staff to assess each youth within 72 hours of admission based on the following information: (a) Prior sexual victimization or abusiveness; (b) Gender nonconforming appearance or manner; or Policy G-103, Admission Procedures identification as lesbian, gay or bisexual, transgender, ☒ queer or intersex, and whether the youth may, therefore, ☐ ☐ be vulnerable to sexual abuse; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (c) Current charges and offense history; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (d) Age; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (e) Level of emotional and cognitive development; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (f) Physical size and stature; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (g) Mental illness or mental disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (h) Intellectual or developmental disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (i) Physical disabilities; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures (j) The youth’s perception of vulnerability; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ (k) Any other specific information about the individual Policy G-103, Admission Procedures youth that may indicate heightened needs for ☒ supervision, additional safety precautions, or separation ☐ ☐ from certain other youth. Staff shall ascertain this information through Policy G-103, Admission Procedures conversations with the youth during the admittance process, medical and behavioral health screenings; ☒ during classification assessments; and by reviewing ☐ ☐ court records, case files, facility behavioral records, and other relevant documentation from the youth’s files. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 16 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 The facility administrator shall implement appropriate Policy G-103, Admission Procedures controls on the dissemination of information within the facility relative to responses received pursuant to this ☒ assessment in order to ensure that sensitive information ☐ ☐ is not exploited to the youth’s detriment by staff or other youth. 1351 RELEASE PROCEDURES Policy G-105, Release Procedures The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures for release of youth from custody which provide for: (a) verification of identity/release papers; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (b) return of personal clothing and valuables; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (c) notification to the youth's parents or guardian; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (d) notification to the facility health care provider in Policy G-105, Release Procedures accordance with Sections 1408 and 1437 of these ☒ ☐ ☐ regulations, for coordination with outside agencies; and, (e) notification of school staff; ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ (f) notification of facility mental health personnel. ☒ Policy G-105, Release Procedures ☐ ☐ The facility administrator shall develop and implement Policy G-105, Release Procedures, policies and procedures for post-disposition youth to Subsection III coordinate the provision of transitional and reentry services including, but not limited to, medical and Completed release forms were provided for behavioral health, education, probation supervision and review; the process involves both Unit and community-based services. Intake staff, ensuring all of the components below are completed. The facility also has a process for furloughing youth, also known as ☒ temporary release. ☐ ☐ Transitional and re-entry services are coordinated by the assigned Deputy Probation Officer, in collaboration with partners including but not limited to Wellpath Medical Services, Wellpath Behavioral Health, and the County Office of Education. The facility administrator shall develop and implement Policy G-105, Release Procedures, written policies and procedures for the furlough of youth ☒ Subsection II, Temporary Release ☐ ☐ from custody. 1352 CLASSIFICATION Policy G-107, Classification The facility administrator shall develop and implement Classification factors include emotional written policies and procedures on classification of youth stability, offense, sophistication, gang for the purpose of determining housing placement in the affiliation, facility behaviors, and special facility. management factors such as medical Such procedures shall: considerations. The shift supervisor or ☒ designee will review each youth’s security ☐ ☐ classification. Ten examples were provided; a review of classification documentation found the processes consistent in identifying criteria for appropriate safety, security, and placement of youth in the facility. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 17 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) provide for the safety of the youth, other youth, facility Policy G-107, Classification staff, and the public by placing youth in the appropriate, least restrictive housing and program settings. Housing ☒ ☐ ☐ assignments shall consider the need for single, double or dormitory assignment or location within the dormitory; (b) consider facility populations and physical design of Policy G-107, Classification ☒ the facility; ☐ ☐ (c) provide that a youth shall be classified upon Policy G-107, Classification admittance to the facility; classification factors shall include, but not be limited to: age, maturity, Youth are classified based on various criteria sophistication, emotional stability, program needs, legal ascertained during admittance to ensure status, public safety considerations, medical/mental compliance with this regulation. health considerations, gender and gender identity of the youth; During the dates of inspection, the facility had ☒ ☐ ☐ two occupied buildings and four occupied units. Units A and B housed Juvenile Hall youth, and Units G and H housed Camp and SYTF youth. However, this is subject to change due to remodeling, program changes, and other events. (d) provide for periodic classification reviews, including Policy G-107, Classification provisions that consider the level of supervision and the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth's behavior while in custody; and, (e) provide that facility staff shall not separate youth from Policy G-107, Classification the general population or assign youth to a single occupancy room based solely on the youth's actual or perceived race, ethnic group identification, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ☒ gender identity, gender expression, mental or physical ☐ ☐ disability, or HIV status. This section does not prohibit staff from placing youth in a single occupancy room at the youth's specific request or in accordance with Title 15 regulations regarding separation. (f) facility staff shall not consider lesbian, gay, bisexual, Policy G-107, Classification transgender, questioning or intersex identification or ☒ status as an indicator of likelihood of being sexually ☐ ☐ abusive. 1352.5 TRANSGENDER AND INTERSEX YOUTH. Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, 3B Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ The facility administrator shall develop written policies and procedures ensuring respectful and equitable ☒ ☐ ☐ treatment of transgender and intersex youth. The policies shall provide that: (a) Facility staff shall respect every youth’s gender Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, identity and shall refer to the youth by the youth’s Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ preferred name and gender pronoun, regardless of the youth’s legal name. Facilities may prohibit the use of ☒ gang or slang names or names that otherwise ☐ ☐ compromise facility operations as determined by the facility manager or designee, and shall document any decision made on this basis. (b) Facility staff shall permit youth to dress and present Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, themselves in a manner consistent with their gender Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ identity and shall provide youth with the institution’s ☒ ☐ ☐ clothing and undergarments consistent with their gender identity. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 18 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) Facility staff shall house youth in the unit or room that Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, best meets their individual needs and promotes their Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ safety and well-being. Staff may not automatically house youth according to their external anatomy and shall Policy G-107, Other Classification document the reasons for any decision to house youth ☒ Considerations, III, IV, V ☐ ☐ in a unit that does not match their gender identity. In making a housing decision, staff shall consider the youth’s preferences, as well as any recommendations from the youth’s health or behavioral health provider. (d) Facility administrators shall ensure that transgender Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and intersex youth have access to medical and Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ ☒ behavioral health providers qualified to provide care and ☐ ☐ treatment to transgender and intersex youth. (e) Consistent with the facility’s reasonable and Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, necessary security considerations and physical plant, Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ facility staff shall make every effort to ensure the safety ☒ and privacy of transgender and intersex youth when the ☐ ☐ youth are using the bathroom or shower, or dressing or undressing. Facility staff shall not conduct physical searches of any Policy F-106, Searches youth for the purpose of determining the youth’s Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in anatomical sex. Whenever feasible, the facility shall ☒ Custody ☐ ☐ respect the youth’s preference regarding the gender of the staff member who conducts any search of the youth. 1353 ORIENTATION Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures to orient a youth prior to The facility normally provides orientation placement in a living area. Both written and verbal both verbally and in writing during information shall be provided and supplemented with admission to the Juvenile Hall, and the ten- video orientation if feasible. Provision shall be made to page Orientation Pamphlet is provided to provide accessible orientation information to all detained the youth to keep during their time in youth including those with disabilities, limited literacy, or custody. Should a youth entering Camp English language learners. need a refresher, staff will review the Orientation shall include information that addresses: material covered during orientation. The information reviews the applicable laws and regulations, and there are signs throughout the facility reminding youth of the rules, as well as incentives and sanctions. The Massachusetts Youth Screening Instrument (MAYSI-2), the Victim Vulnerability ☒ ☐ ☐ Assessment, and other tools may be used to assess the youth and ensure their understanding of the orientation process. Interviews with youth about the orientation process and their understanding of the information provided by facility staff also confirmed compliance with this section. The youth sign an acknowledgment of the Orientation Pamphlet, which emphasizes facility rules and the PREA policy as it relates to zero tolerance for any sexual abuse, assault, or harassment. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 19 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) facility rules including contraband and searches and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, disciplinary procedures; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (b) facility’s system of positive behavior interventions Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, and supports, including behavior expectations, Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure incentives that youth will receive for complying with ☒ ☐ ☐ facility rules, and consequences that may result when youth violate the rules of the facility; (c) age appropriate information that explains the facility’s Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, policy prohibiting sexual abuse and sexual harassment Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure and how to report incidents or suspicions of sexual ☒ abuse or sexual harassment; ☐ ☐ Youth are required to watch the facilities PREA video and sign the PREA advisement. (d) identification of key staff and their roles; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (e) the existence of the grievance procedure, the steps Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, that must be taken to use it, the youth’s right to be free Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☒ of retaliation for reporting a grievance, and the name of ☐ ☐ the person or position designated to resolve the issue; Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (f) access to legal services and information on the court ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure process; ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (g) access to routine and emergency health and mental ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure health care; ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (h) access to education, religious services, and ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure recreational activities; ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (i) housing assignments; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (j) opportunity for personal hygiene and daily showers Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, including the availability of personal care items ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (k) rules and access to correspondence, visits and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, telephone use; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (l) availability of reading materials, programming, and Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, other activities; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (m) facility policies on the use of force, use of restraints, Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, chemical agents and room confinement; Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure The Booking Officer verbally reviews the Rules of Conduct, and the youth will sign acknowledging they understand the facility ☒ ☐ ☐ rules. The booking officer will also review emergency procedures with the youth, providing the “Cover” command form and OC Spray form, and the youth will sign both acknowledging and understanding. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 20 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (n) immigration legal services; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, (o) emergencies including evacuation procedures; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (p) non-discrimination policy and the right to be free from Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, physical, verbal or sexual abuse and harassment by ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ other youth and staff; (q) availability of services and programs in a language Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, other than English if appropriate; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (r) the process for requesting different housing, Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, education, programming and work assignments; ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ (s) a process for which parents/guardians receive Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, information regarding the youth’s stay in the facility that Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure at a minimum includes answers to frequently asked ☒ ☐ ☐ questions and provides contact information for the facility, medical, school and mental health; and, (t) a process by which youth may request access to Title Policy G-103, Admission Procedures, 15 Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities. ☒ Subsection IX, Orientation Procedure ☐ ☐ 1354 SEPARATION Policy G-124, Separation The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures that address: 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 21 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) separation of youth for reasons that include, but are Policy G-124, Separation not be limited to, medical and mental health conditions, assaultive behavior, disciplinary consequences and Separation may occur for different reasons. protective custody. Voluntary Separation, also known as Self Separation, represents the youth’s decision not to participate in activities or programming; for example, if they feel overwhelmed and need a cool-down period. If youth choose to separate for 15 minutes or more, staff shall have a conversation with the youth to assess and determine the reason for separation. Staff initiate a program refusal log, complete an incident report, and submit a referral to Behavioral Health Services. Involuntary separation, also known as Administrative Separation, may occur for various reasons as well, including medical reasons, behavioral health reasons, ☒ protective reasons, or assaultive behavior ☐ ☐ either by or towards youth or staff. In the event of Administrative Separation, the approval of a Division Manager is required, and specified criteria must be met in order to return the youth to regular programming. The youth’s behavior is evaluated each shift as efforts are made to meet the established goals of reintegration. The Supervisor documents progress every shift, provides a summary, and has the documentation reviewed by Administration, in compliance with policy and regulation. A random sample of the documentation of ten examples of Administrative Separation between January and September of 2025 was conducted and confirmed the facility is in compliance with this regulation. (b) consideration of positive youth development and Policy G-124, Separation ☒ trauma-informed care. ☐ ☐ (c) separated youth shall not be denied normal privileges Policy G-124, Separation available at the facility, except when necessary to ☒ ☐ ☐ accomplish the objective of separation. (d) when the objective of the separation is discipline, Policy G-124, Separation Title 15 Section 1390 shall apply. ☒ Policy I-101 Discipline Process ☐ ☐ (e) when separation results in room confinement, the Policy G-124, Separation separation shall occur in accordance with Welfare and ☒ Institutions Code Section 208.3 and Section 1354.5 of ☐ ☐ these regulations. (f) policies and procedures shall ensure a daily review of Policy G-124, Separation separated youth to determine if separation remains ☒ ☐ ☐ necessary. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 22 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1354.5 ROOM CONFINEMENT Policy G-108, Room Confinement 4B (a) The facility administrator shall develop and From January to September 2025, there implement written policies and procedures addressing were zero uses of Room Confinement. the confinement of youth in their room that are consistent with Welfare and Institutions Code Section 208.3. The The department’s policy is compliant with placement of a youth in room confinement shall be Title 15, and staff will utilize Room accomplished in accordance with the following Confinement only when other options are guidelines: ☒ unfeasible, thus the low number. Should ☐ ☐ Room Confinement occur, staff work to reintegrate the youth as soon as possible. A review of the documentation process for Room Confinement included the Room Confinement Checklist, identifying the staff responsibilities for the process, the incident report, and the safety check log. (1) Room confinement shall not be used before other, Policy G-108, Room Confinement less restrictive, options have been attempted and ☒ exhausted, unless attempting those options poses a ☐ ☐ threat to the safety or security of any youth or staff. (2) Room confinement shall not be used for the Policy G-108, Room Confinement purposes of punishment, coercion, convenience, or ☒ ☐ ☐ retaliation by staff. (3) Room confinement shall not be used to the extent Policy G-108, Room Confinement that it compromises the mental and physical health of ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth. (b) A youth may be held up to four hours in room Policy G-108, Room Confinement confinement. After the youth has been held in room ☒ confinement for a period of four hours, staff shall do one ☐ ☐ or more of the following: Policy G-108, Room Confinement (1) Return the youth to general population. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-108, Room Confinement (2) Consult with mental health or medical staff. ☒ ☐ ☐ (3) Develop an individualized plan that includes the Policy G-108, Room Confinement goals and objectives to be met in order to reintegrate ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth to general population. (4) If room confinement must be extended beyond Policy G-108, Room Confinement four hours, staff shall do each of the following: (A) Document the reasons for room confinement and the basis for the extension, the date and time ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth was first placed in room confinement, and when he or she is eventually released from room confinement. (B) Develop an individualized plan that includes Policy G-108, Room Confinement the goals and objectives to be met in order to ☒ ☐ ☐ integrate the youth to general population. (C) Obtain documented authorization by the Policy G-108, Room Confinement facility superintendent or his or her designee ☒ ☐ ☐ every four hours thereafter. (5) This section is not intended to limit the use of Policy G-108, Room Confinement single-person rooms or cells for the housing of youth ☒ in juvenile facilities and does not apply to normal ☐ ☐ sleeping hours. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 23 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (6) This section does not apply to youth or wards in Policy G-108, Room Confinement ☒ court holding facilities or adult facilities. ☐ ☐ (7) Nothing in this section shall be construed to Policy G-108, Room Confinement conflict with any law providing greater or additional ☒ ☐ ☐ protections to youth. (8) This section does not apply during an Policy G-108, Room Confinement extraordinary emergency circumstance that requires a significant departure from normal institutional operations, including a natural disaster or facility- ☒ wide threat that poses an imminent and substantial ☐ ☐ risk of harm to multiple staff or youth. This exception shall apply for the shortest amount of time needed to address this imminent and substantial risk of harm. (9) This section does not apply when a youth is Policy G-108, Room Confinement placed in a locked cell or sleeping room to treat and protect against the spread of a communicable disease for the shortest amount of time required to reduce the risk of infection, with the written approval of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, when the youth is not required to be in an infirmary for an ☒ ☐ ☐ illness. Additionally, this section does not apply when a youth is placed in a locked cell or sleeping room for required extended care after medical treatment with the written approval of a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, when the youth is not required to be in an infirmary for illness. 1355 INSTITUTIONAL ASSESSMENT AND PLAN Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and Plan The facility administrator shall develop and implement ☒ ☐ ☐ written policies and procedures for assessment and case planning. (a) Assessment: Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and The assessment is based on information collected Plan during the admission process with periodic review, which includes the youth's risk factors, needs and strengths ☒ including, but not limited to, identification of substance ☐ ☐ abuse history, educational, vocational, counseling, behavioral health, consideration of known history of trauma, and family strengths and needs. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 24 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b)Institutional Case Plan: Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and (1) A case plan shall be developed for each youth Plan held for at least 30 days or more and created within 40 days of admission. Youth in Camp will likely have previously had their initial Case Plan completed previously, and will have had their Case Plan updated multiple times since. The Deputy Probation Officer will develop a case plan for the youth with goals and objectives. Youth supervision staff also ☒ ☐ ☐ monitor the youth’s progress and meet with the youth, document ing their interactions. Youth supervision staff and the assigned Deputy Probation Officer work together to assist the youth in reaching their rehabilitative goals as related to key life areas. A random sample of ten examples of documentation between January and September of 2025 were reviewed and were found to be in compliance with policy and regulation. (2) The institutional plan shall include, but not be Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and limited to, written documentation that provides: Plan ☒ (A)objectives and time frame for the resolution of ☐ ☐ problems identified in the assessment; (B)a plan for meeting the objectives that includes Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and a description of program resources needed and Plan ☒ individuals responsible for assuring that the plan ☐ ☐ is implemented; (3) periodic evaluation of progress towards meeting Per policy, the youth's plan is updated every the objectives, including periodic review and six months or more frequently. The six discussion of the plan with the youth; Hybrid Deputy Probation Officers assigned to the facility ensure the case plans are completed in a timely manner. In interviews with the youth, most stated that their Probation Officer has been updating their Case Plan each month, rather than waiting for the six-month date. We reviewed ☒ examples of initial and updated plans, which ☐ ☐ addressed the goals established, interventions implemented, and timelines for completion, and found the documentation supported the case plan and outcomes. Within 30 days of a youth’s scheduled release, a Child and Family Team (CFT) Plan is created to establish re-entry and transition goals. (4) a transition plan, the contents of which shall be Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and subject to existing resources, shall be developed for Plan ☒ post dispositional youth in accordance with Section ☐ ☐ 1351; and, 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 25 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (5) in as much as possible and if appropriate, the Policy J-110, Institutional Assessment and plan, including the transition plan, shall be developed Plan with input from the family, supportive adults, youth, and Regional Center for the Developmentally Facility staff and collaborative partners, such ☒ Disabled. ☐ ☐ as Wellpath Behavioral Health, were interviewed and affirmed that meetings are routinely held with the youth in order to provide transitional services. 1356 COUNSELING AND CASEWORK SERVICES Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework Services The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and procedures ensuring the availability of appropriate counseling and casework services for all ☒ ☐ ☐ youth. Policies and procedures shall ensure: (a) youth will receive assistance with needs or concerns that may arise; (b) youth will receive assistance in requesting contact Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework with parents, other supportive adults, attorney, clergy, ☒ Services ☐ ☐ probation officer, or other public official; and, (c) youth will be provided access to available resources Policy J-109, Counseling and Casework ☒ to meet the youth’s needs. ☐ ☐ Services 1357 USE OF FORCE Policy H-112, Use of Force The facility administrator, in cooperation with the Ten samples of use of force reports responsible physician, shall develop and implement occurring between January and September written policies and procedures for the use of force, 2025 were reviewed; the reports involved which may include chemical agents. Force shall never youth engaging in fights with other youths. be applied as punishment, discipline, retaliation or The review found the uses of force were treatment. within policy, and staff responses and (a) At a minimum, each facility shall develop policies and actions were appropriate based on the procedures which: documentation submitted. BSCC staff interviewed youth and staff as to use of force actions and responses. The facility is in compliance with this regulation. ☒ ☐ ☐ The staff meet monthly, or as needed, to audit and review all aspects of the Use of Force incidents, including the incident reports and camera reviews. The findings made by the Administration post review indicate the staff acted within policy, in response to the identified threat, and articulate the level of force necessary. Use of force incidents at the facility overall show a pattern, with the total number of Use of Force incidents decreasing with each inspection. (1) restricts the use of force to that which is deemed Policy H-112, Use of Force reasonable and necessary, as defined in Section 1302 ☒ to ensure the safety and security of youth, staff, others ☐ ☐ and the facility. (2) outline the force options available to staff including Policy H-112, Use of Force both physical and non-physical options and define when those force options are appropriate. The continuum of options includes Officer ☒ ☐ ☐ Presence, Counseling, Verbal Commands, Empty Hand Controls, Defensive Tactics, and OC Spray. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 26 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (3) describe force options or techniques that are Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ expressly prohibited by the facility. ☐ ☐ (4) describe the requirements of staff to report any Policy H-112, Use of Force inappropriate use of force, and to take affirmative ☒ ☐ ☐ action to immediately stop it. (5) define a standardized reporting format that Policy H-112, Use of Force includes time period and procedure for documenting and reporting the use of force, including reporting requirements of management and line staff and procedures for reviewing and tracking use of force incidents by supervisory and or management staff, ☒ ☐ ☐ which include procedures for debriefing a particular incident with staff and/or youth for the purposes of training as well as mitigating the effects of trauma that may have been experienced by staff and /or the youth involved. (6) Include an administrative review and a system for Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ investigating unreasonable use of force. ☐ ☐ (7) define the role, notification, and follow-up Policy H-112, Use of Force procedures required after use of force incidents for medical, mental health staff and parents or legal Medical staff are immediately notified and guardians. typically respond to the units to provide direct care and confirmation of decontamination if OC spray is used. ☒ Behavioral health staff are also notified and ☐ ☐ respond if they are on-site; if not, they respond upon their return, unless requested. In addition, documentation confirms that the youth’s parents or legal guardians are notified. (8) describe the limitations of use of force on pregnant Policy H-112, Use of Force youth in accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) ☒ and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. ☐ ☐ Policy H-116, Pregnant Youth (b) Facilities that authorize chemical agents as a force Policy H-112, Use of Force option shall include policies and procedures that: (1) identify who is approved to carry and/or utilize ☒ chemical agents in the facility and the type, size and ☐ ☐ the approved method of deployment for those chemical agents. (2) mandate that chemical agents only be used when Policy H-112, Use of Force there is an imminent threat to the youth’s safety or the safety of others and only when de-escalation efforts ☒ ☐ ☐ have been unsuccessful or are not reasonably possible. (3) outline the facility’s approved methods and Policy H-112, Use of Force timelines for decontamination from chemical agents. This shall include that youth who have been exposed ☒ to chemical agents shall not be left unattended until ☐ ☐ that youth is fully decontaminated or is no longer suffering the effects of the chemical agent. (4) define the role, notification, and follow-up Policy H-112, Use of Force procedures required after use of force incidents ☒ involving chemical agents for medical, mental health ☐ ☐ staff and parents or legal guardians. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 27 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (5) provide for the documentation of each incident of Policy H-112, Use of Force use of chemical agents, including the reasons for which it was used, efforts to de-escalate prior to use, youth and staff involved, the date, time and location ☒ ☐ ☐ of use, decontamination procedures applied and identification of any injuries sustained as a result of such use. (c) Facilities shall develop policies and procedure which Policy H-112, Use of Force require that agencies provide initial and regular training in use of force and chemical agents when appropriate Following the completion of JCO Core, staff that address: ☒ receive sixteen or more hours of training in ☐ ☐ (1) known medical and behavioral health conditions unarmed defense, weaponless techniques, that would contraindicate certain types of force; and OC spray annually. (2) acceptable chemical agents and the methods of Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ application. ☐ ☐ (3) signs or symptoms that should result in immediate Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ referral to medical or behavioral health. ☐ ☐ (4) instruction on the Constitutional Limitations of Use Policy H-112, Use of Force ☒ of Force. ☐ ☐ (5) physical training force options that may require Policy H-112, Use of Force, Training the use of perishable skills. Requirements for Physical / OC Spray Force ☒ ☐ ☐ Interventions (6) timelines the facility uses to define regular Policy H-112, Use of Force, Training training. Requirements for Physical / OC Spray Force ☒ Interventions, Subsection IV, update training ☐ ☐ annually 1358 USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINTS Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints within the Facility The facility administrator, in cooperation with the responsible physician and mental health director, shall develop and implement written policies and procedures ☒ ☐ ☐ The facility had no youth placed in restraints as it pertained to this regulation. for the use of restraint devices. Restraint devices include any devices which immobilize a youth's extremities and/or prevent the youth from being ambulatory. Physical restraints may be used only for those youth who Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints present an immediate danger to themselves or others, within the Facility who exhibit behavior which results in the destruction of property, or reveals the intent to cause self-inflicted ☒ ☐ ☐ physical harm. Physical restraints should be utilized only when it appears less restrictive alternatives would be ineffective in controlling the youth’s behavior. In no case shall restraints be used as punishment or Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints discipline, or as a substitute for treatment. The use of within the Facility restraint devices that attach a youth to a wall, floor or other fixture, including a restraint chair, or through affixing of ☒ hands and feet together behind the back (hogtying) is ☐ ☐ prohibited. The use of restraints on pregnant youth is limited in accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) and Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 28 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 The provisions of this section do not apply to the use of Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints handcuffs, shackles or other restraint devices when used within the Facility to restrain youth for movement or transportation within the ☒ facility. Movement within the facility shall be governed by ☐ ☐ Section 1358.5, Use of Restraint Devices for Movement Within the Facility. Youth shall be placed in restraints only with the approval Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints of the facility manager or designee. The facility manager within the Facility may delegate authority to place a youth in restraints to a ☒ physician. Reasons for continued retention in restraints ☐ ☐ shall be reviewed and documented at a minimum of every hour. A medical opinion on the safety of placement and Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints retention shall be secured as soon as possible, but no within the Facility later than two hours from the time of placement. The youth ☒ ☐ ☐ shall be medically cleared for continued retention at least every three hours thereafter. A mental health consultation shall be secured as soon as Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints possible, but in no case longer than four hours from the within the Facility ☒ time of placement, to assess the need for mental health ☐ ☐ treatment. Continuous direct visual supervision shall be conducted Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints to ensure that the restraints are properly employed, and within the Facility to ensure the safety and well-being of the youth. ☒ Observations of the youth's behavior and any staff ☐ ☐ interventions shall be documented at least every 15 minutes, with actual time of the documentation recorded. In addition to the requirements above, policies and Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints procedures shall address: within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ (a) documentation of the circumstances leading to an application of restraints. (b) known medical conditions that would contraindicate Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints certain restraint devices and/or techniques. within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ (c) acceptable restraint devices. Policy F-107, Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints within the Facility The facility has identified hard restraint ☒ ☐ ☐ devices as metal handcuffs or leg shackles, and soft restraints as plastic cuffs, cloth restraints, and the WRAP restraining device. (d) signs or symptoms which should result in immediate Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints medical/mental health referral. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility (e) availability of cardiopulmonary resuscitation Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints equipment. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility (f) protective housing of restrained youth. While in Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints restraint devices, all youth shall be housed alone or in a within the Facility specified housing area for restrained youth which makes ☒ ☐ ☐ provision to protect the youth from abuse. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 29 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints (g) provision for hydration and sanitation needs. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints (h) exercising of extremities. ☒ ☐ ☐ within the Facility 1358.5 USE OF RESTRAINT DEVICES FOR Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints 5B MOVEMENT AND TRANSPORTATION WITHIN within the Facility THE FACILITY. Ten examples of the use of restraints for The Facility Administrator, in cooperation with the movement and transportation within the responsible physician and behavioral/mental health facility between January and September director, shall develop and implement written policies 2025 were provided. A review of and procedures for the use of restraint devices when the documentation indicated that restraint use purpose is for movement or transportation within the was for assaultive behavior and behavior facility that shall include the following: resulting in safety or security concerns. (a) identification of acceptable restraint devices, staff The youth were moved from their location, or approved to utilize restraint devices and the required the location of the incident, to their rooms training. ☒ ☐ ☐ where the restraints were removed. Staff are required to document the circumstances leading to the restraint, the less restrictive measures considered, known medical conditions, and the consideration of trauma due to the restraint application. The justification is documented on a “Restraint Device Assessment for Movement and Transportation Within the Facility” form. (b) the circumstances leading to the application of Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints ☒ ☐ ☐ restraints must be documented. within the Facility (c) an individual assessment of the need to apply Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints restraints for movement or transportation that includes within the Facility consideration of less restrictive alternatives, consideration of a youth’s known medical or mental ☒ ☐ ☐ health conditions, trauma informed approaches, and a process for documentation and supervisor review and approval. (d) consideration of safety and security of the facility, Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints with a clearly defined expectation that restraint devices within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ shall not be used for the purposes of discipline or retaliation. (e) the use of restraints on pregnant youth is limited in Policy F-107 Use of Physical Restraints accordance with Penal Code Section 6030(f) and within the Facility ☒ ☐ ☐ Welfare and Institutions Code Section 222. Policy H-116, Pregnant Youth 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 30 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1359 SAFETY ROOM PROCEDURES Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (a) The facility administrator, and where applicable, in There have been zero uses of the Safety cooperation with the responsible physician, shall Room in Intake between January and develop and implement written policies and procedures September 2025. governing the use of safety rooms, as described in Title 24, Part 2, Section 1230.1.13. The room shall be used to hold only those youth who present an immediate ☒ ☐ ☐ danger to themselves or others, who exhibit behavior which results in the destruction of property, or reveals the intent to cause self-inflicted physical harm. A safety room shall not be used for punishment or discipline, or as a substitute for treatment. Policies and procedures shall: (1) include provisions for administration of necessary Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. nutrition and fluids, access to a toilet, and suitable ☒ ☐ ☐ clothing to provide for privacy; (2) provide for approval of the facility manager, or Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. ☒ ☐ ☐ designee, before a youth is placed into a safety room; (3) provide for continuous direct visual supervision Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. and documentation of the youth's behavior and any ☒ ☐ ☐ staff interventions every 15 minutes, with actual time recorded; (4) provide that the youth shall be evaluated by the Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. ☒ ☐ ☐ facility manager, or designee, every four hours; (5) provide for immediate medical assessment, Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. where appropriate, or an assessment at the next ☒ ☐ ☐ daily sick call; and, (6) provide a process for documenting the reason for Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. placement, including attempts to use less restrictive ☒ ☐ ☐ means of control, and decisions to continue and end placement. (b) The placement of a youth in the safety room shall be Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. accomplished in accordance with the following: (1) safety room shall not be used before other less ☒ ☐ ☐ restrictive options have been attempted and exhausted, unless attempting those options poses a threat to the safety or security of any youth or staff. (2) safety room shall not be used for the purposes of Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. punishment, coercion, convenience, or retaliation by ☒ ☐ ☐ staff. (3) safety room shall not be used to the extent that it Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. compromises the mental and physical health of the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth. (c) A youth may be held up to four hours in the safety Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. room. After the youth has been held in the safety room ☒ ☐ ☐ for a period of four hours, staff shall do one or more of the following: (1) return the youth to general population. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (2) consult with mental health or medical staff, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. (3) develop an individualized plan that includes the Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. goals and objectives to be met in order to reintegrate ☒ ☐ ☐ the youth to general population. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 31 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (d) If confinement in the safety room must be extended Policy H-105, Use of the Safety Room. beyond four hours, staff shall develop an individualized plan that includes the requirements of Section 1354.5 ☒ ☐ ☐ and the goals and objectives to be met in order to integrate the youth to general population. 1360 SEARCHES Policy F-106, Searches The facility administrator shall develop and implement Includes the types of searches, procedures written policies and procedures governing the search of for pat-down searches, provisions for youth, the facility, and visitors. transgender/intersex pat-down searches, Policies and procedures shall provide that: ☒ ☐ ☐ metal detector searches, room searches, perimeter searches, etc. (a) Searches shall be conducted to ensure the safety Policy F-106, Searches and security of the facility, public, visitors, youth, and ☒ ☐ ☐ staff. (b) Searches shall be conducted in a manner that Policy F-106, Searches preserves the privacy and dignity of the person being ☒ ☐ ☐ searched and shall not be conducted for harassment or as a form of discipline or punishment. (c) Strip searches and visual or physical body cavity Policy F-106, Searches searches shall comply with Penal Code Section 4030. Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody The Justification for Strip Search form articulates the requirements to do the search, including providing documentation of reasonable cause and Supervisor ☒ ☐ ☐ Approval. All strip search forms between January and September 2025 were reviewed, and in each instance, the Justification Form was completed and signed. We reviewed Strip Search Authorization forms and found the necessary reasonable suspicion articulated with accompanying supervisor approval. (d) Physical body cavity searches shall only be Policy F-106, Searches conducted by a medical professional. Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody ☒ ☐ ☐ No physical body cavity searches have been conducted at the facility in this inspection cycle. (e) Any youth held after a detention hearing shall only be Policy F-106, Searches strip searched with prior approval of a supervisor when there is reasonable suspicion based on specific and Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in ☒ ☐ ☐ articulable facts to believe that youth is concealing Custody contraband. The reasonable suspicion shall be documented. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 32 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (f) Searches of transgender and intersex youth shall Policy F-106, Searches comply with Section 1352.5. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in Custody (g) Cross-gender pat-down searches and strip searches Policy F-106, Searches are prohibited except in exigent circumstances or when conducted by a medical professional. Such searches ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy F-108, Strip Searches of Youth in must be justified and documented in writing. Custody 1361 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure The facility administrator shall develop and implement Grievance forms were located on each unit, written policies and procedures whereby any youth may and all youth interviewed knew of the appeal and have resolved grievances relating to any grievance process and the location of the condition of confinement, including but not limited to forms. A random sample of ten grievances health care services, classification decisions, program between January and September of 2025 participation, telephone, mail or visiting procedures, were reviewed and revealed that the two food, clothing, bedding, mistreatment, harassment or ☒ ☐ ☐ most common concerns resulting in a violations of the nondiscrimination policy. There shall be grievance submission were regarding the no time limit on filing grievances. Policies and youths’ behavior program points and the procedures shall include provisions whereby the facility food being provided in the facility. All manager ensures: grievances were resolved within the required ten-day time frame, and the facility is in compliance. (a) a grievance form and instructions for registering a Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure grievance, which includes provisions for the youth to ☒ ☐ ☐ have free access to the form; (b) the youth shall have the option to confidentially file Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure the grievance or to deliver the form to any youth ☒ ☐ ☐ supervision staff working in the facility; (c) resolution of the grievance at the lowest appropriate Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ staff level; (d) provision for a prompt review and initial response to Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure. grievances within three (3) business days, grievances ☒ ☐ ☐ that relate to health and safety issues must be Between January and September 2025, all addressed immediately; grievances were resolved within ten days. (1) The youth may elect to be present to explain Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure his/her version of the grievance to a person not ☒ ☐ ☐ directly involved in the circumstances which led to the grievance. (2) Provision for a staff representative approved by Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ the facility administrator to assist the youth. (e) provision for a written response to the grievance Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ which includes the reasons for the decisions; (f) a system which provides that any appeal of a Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure grievance shall be heard by a person not directly ☒ ☐ ☐ involved in the circumstances which led to the grievance; (g) resolution of the grievance must occur within ten (10) Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure business days unless circumstances dictate a longer time frame. The youth shall be notified of any delay; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Between January and September 2025, all grievances were resolved within ten days. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 33 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (h) the policy shall provide multiple internal and external Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure ☒ ☐ ☐ methods to report sexual abuse and sexual harassment. Whether or not associated with a grievance, concerns of Policy G-122, Youth Grievance Procedure parents, guardians, staff or other parties shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ addressed and documented in accordance with written policies and procedures within a specified timeframe. 1362 REPORTING OF INCIDENTS Policy E-108 Incident Reports A written report of all incidents which result in physical harm, use of force, serious threat of physical harm, or death of an employee, youth or other person(s) shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ maintained. Such written record shall be prepared by the staff and submitted to the facility manager by the end of the shift, unless additional time is necessary and authorized by the facility manager or designee. 1363 USE OF REASONABLE FORCE TO COLLECT The Department’s prior Policy 01-0309-28, DNA SPECIMENS, SAMPLES, IMPRESSIONS DNA Policy, was revised through Lexipol on November 21, 2022, to become Policy 320, (a) Pursuant to Penal Code Section 298.1 authorized Biological Samples (DNA). law enforcement, custodial, or corrections personnel including peace officers, may employ reasonable force to collect blood specimens, saliva samples, and thumb or palm print impressions from individuals who are required to provide such samples, specimens or ☒ ☐ ☐ impressions pursuant to Penal Code Section 296 and who refuse following written or oral request. (1) For the purpose of this section, the “use of reasonable force” shall be defined as the force that an objective, trained and competent correctional employee, faced with similar facts and circumstances, would consider necessary and reasonable to gain compliance with this section. (2) The use of reasonable force shall be preceded by Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) efforts to secure voluntary compliance. Efforts to secure voluntary compliance shall be documented ☒ ☐ ☐ and include an advisement of the legal obligation to provide the requisite specimen, sample or impression and the consequences of refusal. (b) The force shall not be used without the prior written Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) authorization of the supervising officer on duty. The authorization shall include information that reflects the ☒ ☐ ☐ fact that the offender was asked to provide the requisite specimen, sample, or impression and refused. (1) If the use of reasonable force includes a cell Policy 320, Biological Samples (DNA) extraction, the extraction shall be videotaped. Video shall be directed at the cell extraction event. The videotape shall be retained by the agency for the ☒ ☐ ☐ length of time required by statute. Notwithstanding the use of the video as evidence in a court proceeding, the tape shall be retained administratively. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 34 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1370 EDUCATION PROGRAM Policy J-104, School Programs (a) School Programs The Merced County Office of Education The County Board of Education shall provide for the (MCOE) operates the educational program administration and operation of juvenile court schools in for the facility. The principal and teachers are conjunction with the Chief Probation Officer, or designee committed to providing an educational pursuant to applicable State laws. The school and facility environment for youth. Youth who have administrators shall develop and implement written policy graduated from high school continue their and procedures to ensure communication and education with online enrollment through coordination between educators and probation staff. Merced College. The majority of youth are Culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches high school graduates, having been should be applied when providing instruction. Education provided with programs to connect the youth staff should collaborate with the facility administrator to to community college courses and with use technology to facilitate learning and ensure safe academic support to assist them with the technology practices. The facility administrator shall ☒ ☐ ☐ successful completion of their college request an annual review of each required element of the degree. program by the Superintendent of Schools, and a report or review checklist on compliance, deficiencies, and Transition and reentry services occur for corrective action needed to achieve compliance with this youth as they prepare to exit the facility, section. Such a review, when conducted, cannot be including meeting with representatives of the delegated to the principal or any other staff of any juvenile Merced County Office of Education, such as court school site. The Superintendent of Schools shall a Job Development Training Technician. conduct this review in conjunction with a qualified outside agency or individual. Upon receipt of the review, the facility administrator or designee shall review each item with the Superintendent of Schools and shall take whatever corrective action is necessary to address each deficiency and to fully protect the educational interests of all youth in the facility. (b) Required Elements Policy J-104, School Programs The facility school program shall comply with the State Education Code and County Board of Education policies, all applicable federal education statutes and regulations and provide for an annual evaluation of the educational program offerings. As stated in the 2009 California Standards for the Teaching Profession, teachers shall ☒ ☐ ☐ establish and maintain learning environments that are physically, emotionally, and intellectually safe. Youth shall be provided a rigorous, quality educational program that responds to the different learning styles and abilities of students and prepares them for high school graduation, career entry, and post-secondary education. All youth shall be treated equally, and the education Policy J-104, School Programs program shall be free from discriminatory action. Staff ☒ ☐ ☐ shall refer to transgender, intersex and gender- Policy G-123, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, nonconforming youth by their preferred name and gender. Transgender, Queer + Youth, LGBTQ+ (1) The course of study shall comply with the State Policy J-104, School Programs Education Code and include, but not be limited to, ☒ ☐ ☐ courses required for high school graduation. (2) Information and preparation for the High School Policy J-104, School Programs Equivalency Test as approved by the California ☒ ☐ ☐ Department of Education shall be made available to eligible youth. (3) Youth shall be informed of post-secondary Policy J-104, School Programs ☒ ☐ ☐ education and vocational opportunities. (4) Administration of the High School Equivalency Policy J-104, School Programs Tests as approved by the California Department of ☒ ☐ ☐ Education, shall be made available when possible. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 35 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (5) Supplemental instruction shall be afforded to youth Policy J-104, School Programs who do not demonstrate sufficient progress towards ☒ ☐ ☐ grade level standards. (6) The minimum school day shall be consistent with Policy J-104, School Programs State Education Code Requirements for juvenile court schools. The facility administrator, in conjunction with education staff, must ensure that operational ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures do not interfere with the time afforded for the minimum instructional day. Absences, time out of class or educational instruction, both excused and unexcused, shall be documented. (7) Education shall be provided to all youth regardless Policy J-104, School Programs of classification, housing, security status, disciplinary or separation status, including room confinement, except when providing education poses an immediate ☒ ☐ ☐ threat to the safety of self or others. Education includes, but is not limited to, related services as provided in a youth’s Section 504 Plan or Individualized Education Program (IEP). (c) School Discipline Policy J-104, School Programs (1) Positive behavior management will be implemented to reduce the need for disciplinary action ☒ ☐ ☐ in the school setting and be integrated into the facility's overall behavioral management plan and security system. (2) School staff shall be advised of administrative Policy J-104, School Programs decisions made by probation staff that may affect the ☒ ☐ ☐ educational programming of students. (3) Except as otherwise provided by the State Policy J-104, School Programs Education Code, expulsion/suspension from school shall be imposed only when other means of correction fails to bring about proper conduct. School staff shall follow the appropriate due process safeguards as set ☒ ☐ ☐ forth in the State Education Code including the rights of students with special needs. School staff shall document the other means of correction used prior to imposing expulsion/ suspension if an expulsion/suspension is ultimately imposed. (4) The facility administrator, in conjunction with Policy J-104, School Programs education staff will develop policies and procedures ☒ ☐ ☐ that address the rights of any student who has continuing difficulty completing a school day. (d) Provisions for Special Populations Policy J-104, School Programs (1) State and federal laws and regulations shall be observed for all individuals with disabilities or suspected disabilities. This includes but is not limited ☒ ☐ ☐ to child find, assessment, continuum of alternative placements, manifestation determination reviews, and implementation of Section 504 Plans and Individualized Education Programs. (2) Youth identified as English Learners (EL) shall be Policy J-104, School Programs afforded an educational program that addresses their language needs pursuant to all applicable state and ☒ ☐ ☐ federal laws and regulations governing programs for EL students. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 36 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (e) Educational Screening and Admission Policy J-104, School Programs (1) Youth shall be interviewed after admittance and a ☒ ☐ ☐ record maintained that documents a youth's educational history, including but not limited to: (A) School progress/school history; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-104, School Programs (B) Home Language Survey and the results of the Policy J-104, School Programs ☒ ☐ ☐ State Test used for English language proficiency; (C) Needs and services of special populations as Policy J-104, School Programs defined by the State Education Code, including but ☒ ☐ ☐ not limited to, students with special needs. (D) Discipline problems. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-104, School Programs (2) Youth will be immediately enrolled in school. Policy J-104, School Programs Educational staff shall conduct an assessment to ☒ ☐ ☐ determine the youth's general academic functioning levels to enable placement in core curriculum courses. (3) After admission to the facility, a preliminary Policy J-104, School Programs education plan shall be developed for each youth ☒ ☐ ☐ within five school days. (4) Upon enrollment, education staff shall comply with Policy J-104, School Programs the State Education Code and request the youth's records from his/her prior school(s), including, but not limited to, transcripts, Individual Education Program (IEP), 504 Plan, state language assessment scores, ☒ ☐ ☐ immunization records, exit grades, and partial credits. Upon receipt of the transcripts, the youth's educational plan shall be reviewed with the youth and modified as needed. Youth should be informed of the credits they need to graduate. (f) Educational Reporting Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The complete facility educational record of the youth shall be forwarded to the next educational ☒ ☐ ☐ placement in accordance with the State Education Code. (2) The County Superintendent of Schools shall Policy J-104, School Programs provide appropriate credit (full or partial) for course ☒ ☐ ☐ work completed while in juvenile court school in accordance with the State Education Code. (g) Transition and Re-Entry Planning Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The Superintendent of Schools and the Chief Probation Officer or designee, shall develop policies and procedures to meet the transition needs of youth, ☒ ☐ ☐ including the development of an education transition plan, in accordance with the State Education Code and in alignment with Title 15, Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities, Section 1355. (h) Post-Secondary Education Opportunities Policy J-104, School Programs (1) The school and facility administrator should, whenever possible, collaborate with local post- secondary education providers to facilitate access to ☒ ☐ ☐ educational and vocational opportunities for youth that considers the use of technology to implement these programs. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 37 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1371 PROGRAMS, RECREATION, AND EXERCISE. Policy J-106, Recreation 6B The facility administrator shall develop and implement The facility has multiple programming written policies and procedures for programs, recreation, opportunities, with GEO Reentry Services and exercise for all youth. The intent is to minimize the scheduling and completing much of the amount of time youth are in their rooms or their bed area. programming in the facility for youth since 2023. Programming at the facility has also been provided by additional programs, such as the Prison Education Project and Cactus Flower, supplementing GEO. An incentive program through GEO helps to ensure that all of the partners are participating in the behavior management program for youth in the same way for consistency. ☒ ☐ ☐ The schedules on each unit articulate the programming provided to each unit each day, and each youth has the opportunity to participate in the calendared events. Programming logs were reviewed with the number of hours documented for each youth, and were in compliance, unless the youth refused to participate, which was also documented. Interviews with youth and staff confirmed the receipt of programming every day, and youth were able to describe the programming they had participated in. Juvenile facilities shall provide the opportunity for Policy J-106, Recreation programs, recreation, and exercise a minimum of three hours a day during the week and five hours a day each ☒ ☐ ☐ Saturday, Sunday or other non-school days, of which one hour shall be an outdoor activity, weather permitting. A youth’s participation in programs, recreation, and Policy J-106, Recreation exercise may be suspended only upon a written finding by the administrator/manager or designee that a youth ☒ ☐ ☐ represents a threat to the safety and security of the facility. Such program, recreation, and exercise schedule shall Policy J-106, Recreation ☒ ☐ ☐ be posted in the living units. There will be a written annual review of the programs, Policy J-106, Recreation recreation, and exercise by the responsible agency to ensure content offered is current, consistent, and A letter dated January 27, 2025, from relevant to the population. Deputy Chief Probation Officer Ben Rodriguez was provided, certifying that the ☒ ☐ ☐ annual review of programs, recreation, and exercise, which promotes social awareness and reduces recidivism, has been completed in accordance with Title 15, Section 1371. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 38 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (a) Programs. All youth shall be provided with the Programs available at the time of inspection opportunity for at least one hour of daily programming to include: include, but not be limited to, trauma focused, cognitive, evidence-based, best practice interventions that are • Victim Impact, culturally relevant and linguistically appropriate, or pro- • Gang Intervention social interventions and activities designed to reduce • Anger Management recidivism. These programs should be based on the • Change Company youth’s individual needs as required by Sections 1355 • Life Skills and 1356. Such programs may be provided under the • Power Source direction of the Chief Probation Officer or the County • CBI Cognitive Behavioral Office of Education and can be administered by county Interventions Social Skills partners such as mental health agencies, community • Living in Balance based organizations, faith-based organizations or • Moral Reconation Therapy MRT Probation staff. • Creative Reading and Writing Programs may include but are not limited to: (1) Cognitive Behavior Interventions; (2) Management of Stress and Trauma; ☒ ☐ ☐ Interviews with youth and staff confirmed programming occurs daily by collaborative (3) Anger Management; partners such as GEO, through community- (4) Conflict Resolution; based organizations, or by facility staff. (5) Juvenile Justice System; (6) Trauma-related interventions; (7) Victim Awareness; (8) Self-Improvement; (9) Parenting Skills and support; (10) Tolerance and Diversity; (11) Healing Informed Approaches; (12) Interventions by Credible Messengers; (13) Gender Specific Programming; (14) Art, creative writing, or self-expression; (15) CPR and First Aid training; (16) Restorative Justice or Civic Engagement; (17) Career and leadership opportunities; and, (18) Other topics suitable to the youth population. (b) Recreation. All youth shall be provided the opportunity Policy J-106, Recreation for at least one hour of daily access to unscheduled activities such as leisure reading, letter writing, and Youth and staff interviewed confirmed that entertainment. Activities shall be supervised and include youth receive at least one hour, and often orientation and may include coaching of youth. ☒ ☐ ☐ more than one hour, of unstructured activities daily. Activities include reading, television, phone calls, board games, letter writing, and video games. (c) Exercise. All youth shall be provided with the J-106, Recreation, Subsection IV opportunity for at least one hour of large muscle activity each day. Youth and staff interviewed confirmed that youth receive at least one hour, and often more than one hour, of large muscle activity daily, typically outdoors unless the weather ☒ ☐ ☐ is inclement, in which case it is moved indoors. Activity available to the youth includes basketball, running, and various forms of exercise such as burpees, pushups, and sit-ups. The administrator/manager may suspend, for a period not J-106, Recreation, Subsection IX to exceed 24 hours, access to recreation and programs. ☒ ☐ ☐ The administrator/manager shall document the reasons why suspension of recreation and programs occurs. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 39 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1372 RELIGIOUS PROGRAM Policy J-103, Religious Programs. The facility administrator shall provide access to religious Religious services visit the facility once a services and/or religious counseling at least once each week, or more frequently, if requested. Youth week. Attendance shall be voluntary. A youth shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ and staff confirmed that religious services allowed to participate in an activity outside of their room if are available weekly, and they are not he/she elects not to participate in religious programs. required to participate. Religious programs shall provide for: (a) opportunity for religious services and practices; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. (b) availability of clergy; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. (c) availability of religious diets. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-103, Religious Programs. 1373 WORK PROGRAM Policy J-102, Work/Job Programs The facility administrator shall develop policies and procedures regarding the fair and consistent assignment of youth to work programs. Work assigned to a youth shall ☒ ☐ ☐ be meaningful, constructive and related to vocational training or increasing a youth's sense of responsibility. Work programs shall not be imposed as a disciplinary measure 1374 VISITING Policy J-101, Visiting. The facility administrator shall develop and implement Visiting is scheduled for Saturday and written policies and procedures for visiting, that include Sunday each week. provisions for special visits. Youth shall be allowed to receive visits by parents, guardians or persons standing in loco parentis, and children of youth. Other family ☒ ☐ ☐ Special Visits, such as those with supportive adults, are approved by Administration and members, such as grandparents and siblings, and are in addition to, and not a substitute for, supportive adults, may be allowed to visit with the weekly scheduled visits. approval of the facility administrator or designee, and in conjunction with the youth’s case plan or in the best interest of the youth. All visits shall occur at reasonable times, subject only to Policy J-101, Visiting. the limitations necessary to maintain order and security. Visitation shall not be denied solely based on the visitor’s criminal history. The staff shall determine in each case, whether the visitor’s criminal history represents a risk to ☒ ☐ ☐ the safety of youth or staff in the facility. Any denial of visitation or limitation on visitations shall be communicated to the youth, person denied and facility administrator. Opportunity for visitation shall be a minimum of two hours Policy J-101, Visiting. per week. Visits may be supervised, but conversations ☒ ☐ ☐ shall not be monitored unless there is a security or safety need. Provisions for special visits, in addition to the two-hour Policy J-101, Visiting. minimum and/or outside of the regular visiting hours, shall be accommodated as necessary and within the discretion of the facility administrator or designee. Family therapy ☒ ☐ ☐ and professional visits shall be accommodated outside the provisions of this regulation. Facilities may provide visitation opportunities outside of normal visiting hours to accommodate special visits. The facility may provide access to technology as an Policy J-101, Visiting. ☒ ☐ ☐ alternative, but not as a replacement, to in-person visiting. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 40 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1375 CORRESPONDENCE Policy J-111, Correspondence The facility administrator shall develop and implement The facility does not place limitations on the written policies and procedures for correspondence which ☒ ☐ ☐ volume of mail that a youth may send or provide that: receive. (a) there is no limitation on the volume of mail that youth may send or receive; (b) youth may send two letters per week postage free; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy J-111, Correspondence (c) youth may correspond confidentially with state and Policy J-111, Correspondence federal courts, any member of the State Bar or holder of public office, and the Board; however, authorized facility ☒ ☐ ☐ staff may open and inspect such mail only to search for contraband and in the presence of the youth; and, (d) incoming and outgoing mail, other than that described Policy J-111, Correspondence in (c), may be read by staff only when there is reasonable ☒ ☐ ☐ cause to believe facility safety and security, public safety, or youth safety is jeopardized. 1376 TELEPHONE ACCESS Policy J-107, Use of Telephone Youth 7B The administrator of each juvenile facility shall develop The youth interviewed stated they have the and implement written policies and procedures to provide ☒ ☐ ☐ opportunity to make one, and sometimes youth with access to telephone communications. more, phone calls per day. 1377 ACCESS TO LEGAL SERVICES Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services The facility administrator shall develop written procedures to ensure the right of youth to have access to the courts ☒ ☐ ☐ and legal services. Such access shall include: (a) access, upon request by the youth, to licensed attorneys and their authorized representatives; (b) provision for confidential consultation with attorneys; Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services ☒ ☐ ☐ and, (c) unlimited postage free, legal correspondence and Policy J-108, Access to Legal Services ☒ ☐ ☐ cost-free telephone access as appropriate. 1390 DISCIPLINE Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall develop and implement The Behavior Modification System written policies and procedures for the discipline of youth clearly identify the facility rules regarding that shall promote acceptable behavior; including the use expectations and consequences. The of positive behavior interventions and supports. Discipline procedure outlines how negative behaviors shall be imposed at the least restrictive level which can result in the loss of points and status. promotes the desired behavior and shall not include Regardless of status, youth receive all corporal punishment, group punishment, physical or required regulation components as they psychological degradation. relate to education, programming, and other Deprivation of the following is not permitted: ☒ ☐ ☐ rights for all conditions of confinement. When youth pose a threat to the safety and security of the facility, staff continue to promote reintegration with all programs and activities as soon as possible. Youth understand expected behaviors and work to promote and advance throughout the day. Sanctions remind youth of the rules, and major incidents are rare. (a) bed and bedding; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 41 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (b) daily shower, access to drinking fountain, toilet and Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ personal hygiene items, and clean clothing; (c) full nutrition; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (d) contact with parent or attorney; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (e) exercise; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (f) medical services and counseling; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (g) religious services; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (h) clean and sanitary living conditions; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (i) the right to send and receive mail; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (j) education; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (k) rehabilitative programming. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall establish rules of conduct Policy I-101, Discipline Process and disciplinary penalties to guide the conduct of youth. Such rules and penalties shall include both major Policy I-103, Behavior Management System. violations and minor violations, be stated simply and ☒ ☐ ☐ affirmatively, and be made available to all youth. Provision The facility has an incentive program for all shall be made to provide accessible information to youth youth in custody. with disabilities, limited English proficiency, or limited literacy. 1391 DISCIPLINE PROCESS Policy I-101, Discipline Process The facility administrator shall develop and implement Documentation involving the discipline written policies and procedures for the administration of process for major rule violations was discipline which shall include, but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ reviewed; youth are provided with a due (a) designation of personnel authorized to impose process hearing as required by regulation, discipline for violation of rules; which is documented and administratively reviewed by the Program Manager. (b) prohibiting discipline to be delegated to any youth; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-101, Discipline Process (c) definition of major and minor rule violations and their Policy I-101, Discipline Process consequences, and due process requirements; Policy I-103, Behavior Management System. ☒ ☐ ☐ Level 1 and 2 violations are considered minor violations. Level 3 and 4 violations are major violations. (d) trauma-informed approaches and positive behavior Policy I-101, Discipline Process interventions; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy I-103, Behavior Management System (e) minor rule violations may be handled informally by Policy I-103, Behavior Management System counseling, advising the youth of expected conduct imposing a minor consequence. Discipline shall be ☒ ☐ ☐ accompanied by written documentation and a policy of review and appeal to a supervisor; and, 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 42 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (f) major rule violations and the discipline process shall Policy I-101, Discipline Process be documented and require the following: (1) written notice of violation prior to a hearing; A sample review of due process documentation was consistent with regulation requirements, the situation surrounding the rule violation(s), and the appropriate utilization of sanctions. ☒ ☐ ☐ Staff were able to articulate the nature of the violation and the appropriate consequences within the behavior management grid. Administrative staff review often resulted in a meeting with the youth regarding the sanction. (2) accommodations provided to youth with Policy I-101, Discipline Process disabilities, limited literacy, and English language ☒ ☐ ☐ learners; (3) hearing by a person who is not a party to the Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ incident; (4) opportunity for the youth to be heard, present Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ evidence and testimony; (5) provision for youth to be assisted by staff in the Policy I-101, Discipline Process ☒ ☐ ☐ hearing process; Policy I-101, Discipline Process (6) provision for administrative review. ☒ ☐ ☐ (g) violations that result in a removal from camp or Policy I-04, Bear Creek Academy (BCA) commitment program, but not a return to court, will follow ☒ ☐ ☐ Programs. the due process provisions in subsection (e) above. 1410 MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNICABLE DISEASES. Policy J-105, Health Services Policy D-110, Exposure to Bodily Fluids The health administrator/responsible physician, in Policy G-104, Procedures for Intoxicated cooperation with the facility administrator and the local health officer, shall develop written policies and ☒ ☐ ☐ Youth procedures to address the identification, treatment, Wellpath Global Policy and Procedure control and follow-up management of communicable Reference 71488: Communicable Disease diseases. The policies and procedures shall address, but not be limited to: Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (a) Intake health screening procedures; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (b) Identification of relevant symptoms; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (c) Referral for medical evaluation; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (d) Treatment responsibilities during detention; ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 43 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control (e) Coordination with public and private community- ☒ ☐ ☐ based resources for follow-up treatment; Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 6.5 Discharge Wellpath Merced County Juvenile Policies (f) Applicable reporting requirements; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ and Procedures Reference 71911: Infection Prevention and Control 6.4.1 Reporting Wellpath Global Policy and Procedure (g) Strategies for handling disease outbreaks. ☒ ☐ ☐ Reference 71488: Communicable Disease The policies and procedures shall be updated as Per Wellpath Health Services Administrator necessary to reflect communicable disease priorities Mee Hao, the agency updates policies and identified by the local health officer and currently ☒ ☐ ☐ procedures as needed to ensure the recommended public health interventions. protection of the youth and staff/agency partners. 1433 REQUESTS FOR HEALTH CARE SERVICES Policy J-105, Health Services The health administrator, in cooperation with the facility While medical and behavioral request forms administrator, shall develop policy and procedures to were identified in their locations on every establish a daily routine for youth to convey requests for unit, the youth interviewed indicated that emergency and non-emergency medical, dental and they typically just told staff, and staff then behavioral/mental health care services. contacted medical or behavioral health services for them via telephone or radio. ☒ ☐ ☐ However, the forms are present and do allow the youth to make their request confidential, should they wish to do so. Interviews with Medical and Behavioral Health Services confirmed both the opportunity for confidentiality and the option for youth to request services via staff request. 1480 STANDARD FACILITY CLOTHING ISSUE Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange The youth’s personal clothing, undergarments and The clothing worn by the youth was footwear may be substituted for the institutional clothing observed during interviews to be in good and footwear specified in this regulation. The facility has repair, free of stains, and fitting appropriately. the primary responsibility to provide clothing and The youth interviewed stated that should footwear. Clothing provisions shall ensure that: ☒ ☐ ☐ they need new underwear, clothing, or shoes, they would ask staff, and they would receive the items in compliance with this section. (a) Clothing is clean, reasonably fitted, durable, easily Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ laundered, in good repair, and free of holes and tears. (b) The standard issue of climatically suitable clothing Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange for youth shall consist of but not be limited to: ☒ ☐ ☐ (1) Socks and serviceable footwear; (2) Outer garments; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange (3) New non-disposable underwear which shall Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ remain with the youth throughout their stay, and; (4) Undergarments, that are freshly laundered and Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange ☒ ☐ ☐ free of stains, including tee shirts and bras. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 44 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 (c) Clothing is laundered at the temperature required by Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange local ordinances for the commercial laundries and dried ☒ ☐ ☐ completely in a mechanical dryer or other laundry method approved by the local health officer. (d) Suitable clothing is issued to pregnant youth. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange 1482 CLOTHING EXCHANGE Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange The facility administrator shall develop and implement Interviews with the youth confirmed they written policies and site-specific procedures for the receive laundered clothing daily. cleaning and scheduled exchange of clothing. Unless work, climatic conditions, or illness necessitates more ☒ ☐ ☐ frequent exchange, outer garments, except for footwear, shall be exchanged at least once each week. Tee shirts, bras, and underwear shall be exchanged daily; youth shall receive their own underwear back at exchange. 1484 CONTROL OF VERMIN IN YOUTH’S Policy G-120, Clothing Issue and Exchange PERSONAL CLOTHING There shall be written policies and site-specific procedures developed and implemented by the facility administrator to control the contamination and/or spread ☒ ☐ ☐ of vermin and ecto-parasites in all youth’s personal clothing. Infested clothing shall be cleaned or stored in a closed container so as to eradicate or stop the spread of the vermin. 1485 ISSUE OF PERSONAL CARE ITEMS Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene There shall be written policies and site-specific Interviews with youth confirm they are procedures developed and implemented by the facility receiving all required personal care items. administrator for the availability of personal hygiene ☒ ☐ ☐ items. Each female youth shall be provided with sanitary napkins, panty liners and tampons as requested. Each youth to be held over 24 hours shall be provided with the following personal care items; (a) Toothbrush; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (b) Toothpaste; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (c) Soap; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (d) Comb; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (e) Shaving implements; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (f) Deodorant; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (g) Lotion; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (h) Shampoo; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene (i) Post-shower conditioning hair products. ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Youth shall not be required to share any personal care Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene items listed in items (a) through (d). Liquid soap provided through a common dispenser is permitted. Youth shall not share disposable razors. Double edged safety razors, electric razors, and other shaving instruments ☒ ☐ ☐ capable of breaking the skin, when shared among youth, shall be disinfected between individual uses by the method prescribed by the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology in Sections 979 and 980, Chapter 9, Title 16, California Code of Regulations. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 45 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1486 PERSONAL HYGIENE Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene There shall be written policies and site specific procedures developed and implemented by the facility administrator for showering/bathing and brushing of ☒ ☐ ☐ teeth. Youth shall be permitted to shower/bathe up on assignment to a housing unit and on a daily basis thereafter and given an opportunity to brush their teeth after each meal. 1487 SHAVING Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Youth shall have access to a razor daily, unless their Interviews with the youth confirmed they are appearance must be maintained for reasons of offered the opportunity to shave every day. identification in Court. All youth shall have equal ☒ ☐ ☐ opportunity to shave face and body hair. The facility administrator may suspend this requirement in relation to youth who are considered to be a danger to themselves or others. 1488 HAIR CARE SERVICES Policy G-116, Personal Hygiene Hair care services shall be available in all juvenile facilities. Youth shall receive hair care services monthly. Equipment shall be cleaned and disinfected after each ☒ ☐ ☐ Interviews with the youth and staff haircut or procedure, by a method approved by the State confirmed that a barber visits the facility Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. once a week and provides haircuts as requested. 1500 STANDARD BEDDING AND LINEN ISSUE Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen Clean laundered, suitable bedding and linens, in good repair, shall be provided for each youth entering a living Interviews with youth confirm they receive area who is expected to remain overnight, shall include, ☒ ☐ ☐ clean linen, including their blankets, each but not be limited to: week. Additionally, they can receive clean linen or blankets if needed before exchange day. (a) One mattress or mattress-pillow combination which Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen meets the requirements of Section 1502 of these ☒ ☐ ☐ regulations; (b) One pillow and a pillow case unless provided for in Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen ☒ ☐ ☐ (a) above; (c) One mattress cover and a sheet or two sheets; ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen (d) One towel; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen (e) One blanket or more, up on request ☒ ☐ ☐ Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen 1501 BEDDING LINEN EXCHANGE Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen The facility administrator shall develop and implement Interviews with youth confirm they are site specific written policies and procedures for the exchanging linen, including their blankets, scheduled exchange of laundered bedding and linen ☒ ☐ ☐ each week. They can receive clean linen or issued to each youth housed. Washable items such as blankets if needed before exchange day. sheets, mattress covers, pillow cases and towels shall be exchanged for clean replacement at least once each week. The covering blanket shall be cleaned or laundered once Policy G-121, Bedding and Linen ☒ ☐ ☐ a month. 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 46 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 TITLE 15 SECTION YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE – COMMENTS2 1510 FACILITY SANITATION, SAFETY AND Policy G-119, Facility Sanitation, MAINTENANCE Maintenance and Safety. The facility administrator shall develop and implement written policies and site-specific procedures for the maintenance of an acceptable level of cleanliness, repair and safety throughout the facility. The plan shall provide for a regular schedule of housekeeping tasks, ☒ ☐ ☐ equipment, including restraint devices, and physical plant maintenance and inspections to identify and correct unsanitary or unsafe conditions or work practices in a timely manner. The use of chemicals shall be done in accordance to the product label and Safety Data Sheet which may include the use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE). 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 47 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 REVIEW OF NON-REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS GRANT FUNDING OR CODE REFERENCE YES NO N/A P/P REFERENCE - COMMENTS JUVENILE PROBATION AND CAMPS FUNDING (JPCF) (Camps Only) The programs/services identified on the JPCF Camp The Camp Eligibility Form FY 2024-25 was Eligibility Form are being provided at the facility. (Refer ☒ ☐ ☐ submitted on January 22, 2025. to the JPCF Camp Eligibility Form) 7330 Merced Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp CI PRO 25-26 Page 48 of 48 J453 JUV PRO eff. 01.01.25 JUVENILE HALLS, SPECIAL PURPOSE JUVENILE HALLS AND CAMPS PHYSICAL PLANT EVALUATION Board of State and Community Corrections APPLICABLE TITLE 24 REGULATIONS: 4/98; 2001; 2003; 2009; 2014; 2018 BSCC Code: 7327, 7728, 7330 FACILITY NAME: FACILITY TYPE: Iris Garrett Juvenile Justice Corrections Complex (IGJJCC) JH (7327), Camp Merced Secure Youth Treatment Facility (7328), SYTF Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp (7330) 4/98: 2001: 2003: 2009: 2014: 2018: APPLICABLE REGULATIONS (Check All That Apply): ☒ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ FIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Eric Raley DATE: October 23, 2025 TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 1230.1.1 Reception/intake admission. In each juvenile hall, space used for the reception of youth pending admission to juvenile hall shall have the following space and equipment: 1. Weapons lockers as specified in Section 1230.2.9; There is a secure weapons area in Sally Port, ☒ ☐ ☐ in the Booking area at the IGJJCC. 2. A secure room for the confinement of youth pending There is one intake and booking area for the admission to juvenile hall as specified in Section IGJJCC. All youth entering or returning to the 1230.1.2; facility go through this area. In each juvenile hall, camp and ranch, space used ☒ ☐ ☐ for the reception of youth pending admission to these facilities shall have the following space and equipment: 3. Access to a shower; ☒ ☐ ☐ 4. A secure vault or storage space for youth, valuables; ☒ ☐ ☐ 5. Telephone accessible to youth; and ☒ ☐ ☐ 6. Access to hot and cold running water for staff use. ☒ ☐ ☐ 1230.1.2 Locked holding room. A locked holding room shall: 1. Contain a minimum of 15 square feet of floor area There are three holding rooms in the Intake per youth; area at the IGJJCC, two of which can be used for sleeping rooms, as each contains a combination washbasin and drinking fountain. There is also one WIC 601 locked holding ☒ ☐ ☐ room adjacent to the medical area, which is not to be used unless a 601 minor is delivered to the facility. A removable chair is available. This is a non-rated room. 2. Provide no less than 45 square feet of floor space and have a clear ceiling height of 8 feet or more; ☒ ☐ ☐ 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 1 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 3. Contain seating to accommodate all youth as specified in Section 1230.2.8; ☒ ☐ ☐ 4. Be equipped with a toilet, wash basin, mirror and drinking fountain unless as specified in Section 1230.2, unless a procedure is in effect to give the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth access to a toilet, wash basin and drinking fountain; 5. Maximize visual supervision of youth by staff; and ☒ ☐ ☐ 6. Have an outward swinging or lateral sliding door. ☒ ☐ ☐ 1230.1.3 Natural light. Outer-facing exterior windows where youth’s privacy is not at risk shall be provided in locked sleeping rooms, single occupancy sleeping rooms, double occupancy ☒ ☐ ☐ sleeping rooms, dormitories and dayrooms. Natural light may be provided by, but is not limited to, skylights or windows in dayrooms, windows in adjacent exterior exercise areas, and in sleeping rooms and/or dormitories. 1230.1.4 Corridors ☒ ☐ ☐ Corridors in living areas shall be at least eight feet wide. 1230.1.5 Living unit. Each living unit can accommodate 15 youths. A living unit shall be a self-contained unit containing locked sleeping rooms, single and double occupancy ☒ ☐ ☐ sleeping rooms, or dormitories, dayroom space, toilet, wash basins, drinking fountains and showers commensurate to the number of youth housed. A living unit shall not be divided in a way that hinders direct access, supervision, immediate intervention or ☒ ☐ ☐ other action if needed. In juvenile halls, the number of youth housed in a living unit shall not exceed 30. 1230.1.6 Locked sleeping rooms. Each sleeping room has a combination toilet, washbasin, and drinking fountain. Locked sleeping rooms shall be equipped with an ☒ ☐ ☐ individual or combination toilet, wash basin, mirror and drinking fountain. Doors to locked sleeping rooms shall swing outward or ☒ ☐ ☐ slide laterally. 1230.1.7 Single occupancy sleeping rooms. Single occupancy sleeping rooms shall provide the ☒ ☐ ☐ following: 1. A minimum of 70 square feet of floor area; 2. A minimum ceiling height of eight feet; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. The door into this room shall swing outward or slide laterally and be provided with a view panel, a ☒ ☐ ☐ minimum of 144 square inches, constructed of security glazing. 4. Contain a bed as specified in 1230.2.5. ☒ ☐ ☐ 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 2 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 1230.1.8 Double occupancy sleeping rooms. The Administration plans to remodel a limited number of sleeping rooms in Building 2 for Double occupancy sleeping rooms shall provide the ☒ ☐ ☐ youth. This construction project has not following: started. 1. A minimum of 100 square feet of floor area; 2. A minimum clear ceiling height of 8 feet and a ☒ ☐ ☐ minimum width of 7 feet; and, 3. The door into this room shall swing outward or slide laterally and be provided with a view panel, a ☒ ☐ ☐ minimum of 144 square inches, constructed of security glazing. 4. Contain a bed as specified in 1230.2.5. ☒ ☐ ☐ 1230.1.9 Dormitories Dormitories shall provide the following: 1. A minimum of 50 square feet of floor area per ☒ ☐ ☐ youth with the minimum size of a dormitory being 200 square feet of floor area and a minimum 8- foot clear ceiling height; 2. Designed for no fewer than four youth; ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. Dormitories in juvenile halls shall be designed for ☒ ☐ ☐ no more than 30 youth; 4. Camps shall conform to Items 1 and 2. ☒ ☐ ☐ 1230.1.10 Dayrooms Dayrooms shall contain 35 square feet of floor area per ☒ ☐ ☐ youth, contain tables and seating to accommodate the maximum numbers of youth allowed access at a given time. Access must be provided to toilets, wash basins, The living unit rooms include toilets and wash drinking fountains and showers as specified in Section basins in the sleeping rooms. There are 1230.2. ☒ ☐ ☐ showers and two drinking fountains in each dayroom. 1230.1.11 Physical activity and recreation areas. Indoor/outdoor physical activity and recreation areas shall be designed as follows: 1. Minimum indoor outdoor recreation space for ☒ ☐ ☐ facility capacity: 40 or less is 9,000 square feet; 41-274 is 225 square feet per youth up to 61,650 square feet; 275 or more is 61,650 square feet, plus 145 square feet for each youth beyond 274 [up to a maximum of 87,120 square feet] 1.1 At least one quarter of the dedicated indoor/outdoor space shall be a paved or like ☒ ☐ ☐ surface. 1.2 The required recreation area shall contain no ☒ ☐ ☐ single dimension less than 40 feet. 2. A portion of the dedicated space for physical activity and recreation shall be out-of-doors and be sufficient size and equipped in such a manner to allow ☒ ☐ ☐ compliance with Title 15, Section 1371, which requires at least one hour per day of outdoor activity for each detained youth. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 3 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 3. Lighting of outdoor recreation areas shall be provided to allow for evening activities and to provide ☒ ☐ ☐ security. 4. Access must be provided to a toilet, wash basin ☒ ☐ ☐ and drinking fountain as specified in Section 1230.2. 1230.1.12 Academic classrooms. ☒ ☐ ☐ There shall be a dedicated classroom space for every juvenile in every facility. The primary purpose for the academic classroom shall ☒ ☐ ☐ be for education. Each academic classroom shall contain a minimum of Each classroom can accommodate at least 15 160 square feet of floor space for the teacher’s desk youths, as the square footage is 775’ per ☒ ☐ ☐ and work area and a minimum of 28 square feet of classroom. There is a classroom in each unit. floor space per minor. A communication system shall be provided in each classroom to allow for immediate response to ☒ ☐ ☐ emergencies. The classroom shall be designed for a maximum of 20 ☒ ☐ ☐ minors. There shall be space available in every juvenile facility that may be used for specialized, one-on-one or small ☒ ☐ ☐ group educational purposes. 1230.1.13 Safety room. There is one safety room in the intake area (I- 1), and it measures 64 square feet. A safety room shall: ☒ ☐ ☐ 1. Contain a minimum of 48 square feet of floor area and a minimum clear ceiling height of 8 feet; 2. Be limited to one youth; ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. Be padded as specified in Section 1230.2.7; ☒ ☐ ☐ 4. Provide one or more vertical view panels constructed of security glazing. These view panels shall be no more than 4 inches wide nor less than 24 ☒ ☐ ☐ inches long, which shall provide a view of the entire room; 5. Provide an audio monitoring system as specified ☒ ☐ ☐ in Section 1230.1.22; 6. Contain a flushing ring toilet, capable of accepting solid waste, mounted flush with the floor, the controls ☒ ☐ ☐ for which must be located outside of the room; 7. Be equipped with a variable intensity, security- type lighting fixture with controls located outside the ☒ ☐ ☐ room; 8. Any wall or ceiling-mounted devices must be designed to prohibit access to the youth occupant; ☒ ☐ ☐ and, 9. Provide a food pass with lockable shutter, no more than 4 inches high, and located between 26 inches ☒ ☐ ☐ and 32 inches as measured from the bottom of the food pass to the floor. 1230.1.14 Medical examination room. ☒ ☐ ☐ There must be a minimum of one suitably equipped medical examination room in every juvenile facility. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 4 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS Medical examination rooms shall provide the following: 1. Space for carrying out routine medical ☒ ☐ ☐ examinations and emergency care and used for no other purpose; 2. Privacy for youth; ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. Lockable storage space for medical supplies; ☒ ☐ ☐ 4. Not less than 144 square feet of floor space with ☒ ☐ ☐ no single dimension less than 7 feet; 5. Hot and cold running water; ☒ ☐ ☐ 6. Smooth, nonporous, washable surface; ☒ ☐ ☐ 7. A medical exam table; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ 8. Adequate lighting. ☒ ☐ ☐ 1230.1.15 Pharmaceutical storage. Provide lockable storage space for medical supplies ☒ ☐ ☐ and pharmaceutical preparations as specified by Title 15, Section 1438. 1230.1.16 Dining areas. Standard operations include youth dining in the multi-purpose room adjacent to each Dining areas in juvenile facilities shall contain a ☒ ☐ ☐ living unit or in the dayroom, unless other minimum of 15 square feet of floor space and sufficient reasons, such as medical separation, exist. tables and seating for each person being fed. Persons being fed include youth, staff and visitors. ☒ ☐ ☐ Dining areas shall not contain toilets or showers in the ☒ ☐ ☐ same room without appropriate visual barrier. 1230.1.17 Visiting space. Visiting occurs in the Court Waiting Room of the facility. Space shall be provided in all juvenile facilities for in- ☒ ☐ ☐ person visiting which shall be unobstructed by barriers such as, but not limited to, security glazing for mesh. 1230.1.18 Institutional storage. One or more storage rooms shall be provided to ☒ ☐ ☐ accommodate a minimum of 80 cubic feet of storage space per minor. Items to be stored shall be institutional clothing, ☒ ☐ ☐ bedding, supplies and activity equipment. 1230.1.19 Personal storage. Each youth in a juvenile facility shall be provided with ☒ ☐ ☐ a minimum of 9 cubic feet of secure storage space for personal clothing and belongings. 1230.1.20 Safety equipment storage. In all juvenile facilities, a secure area shall be provided ☒ ☐ ☐ for the storage of safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, self-contained breathing apparatus, wire and bar cutters, emergency lights, etc. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 5 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 1230.1.21 Janitorial closet. In all juvenile facilities, at least one securely lockable ☒ ☐ ☐ janitorial closet, containing a mop sink and sufficient area for the storage of cleaning implements, must be provided within a security area of the facility. 1230.1.22 Audio monitoring system. In safety rooms, locked holding rooms, locked sleeping rooms, single and double occupancy rooms ☒ ☐ ☐ and dormitories, there must be an audio monitoring system capable of actuation by the minor that alerts personnel. 1230.1.23 Emergency power. There shall be a source of emergency power in all juvenile facilities capable of providing minimal lighting ☒ ☐ ☐ in all living units, activities areas, corridors, stairs and central control points, and to maintain fire and life safety, security, communications and alarm systems (Title 24, Part 2, Chapter 27). Such an emergency power source shall conform to the requirements specified in Title, 24, Part 3, Article 700, ☒ ☐ ☐ California Electrical Code, California Code of Regulations. 1230.1.24 Confidential interview room. ☒ ☐ ☐ Confidential interview rooms shall contain a minimum of 60 square feet of floor area. In juvenile halls there shall be a minimum of one ☒ ☐ ☐ suitably furnished interview room for each 30 youth. In camps there shall be a minimum of one suitably ☒ ☐ ☐ furnished interview room for each facility. This interview room shall provide for confidential ☒ ☐ ☐ consultations with youth. 1230.1.25 Special-purpose juvenile halls. Special-purpose juvenile halls shall conform to all ☐ ☐ ☒ minimum standards for juvenile facilities contained in this section with the following exceptions: 1. Physical activity and recreation areas as specified ☐ ☐ ☒ in Section 1230.1.11; 2. Academic classrooms as specified in Section ☐ ☐ ☒ 1230.1.12; 3. Medical examination room as specified in Section ☐ ☐ ☒ 1230.1.14; and, 4. Dining areas as specified in Section 1230.1.16. ☐ ☐ ☒ 1230.1.26 Court holding room for youth. A court holding room shall: ☒ ☐ ☐ 1. Contain a minimum of 10 square feet of floor area per youth; 2. Be limited to no more than 16 youth; ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. Provide no less than 40 square feet of floor area ☒ ☐ ☐ and have a ceiling height of 8 feet or more; 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 6 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 4. Contain seating to accommodate all youth as ☒ ☐ ☐ specified in Section 1230.2.8; 5. Contain a toilet, wash basin and drinking fountain ☒ ☐ ☐ as specified in Section 1230.2; 6. Maximize visual supervision of youth by staff; and, ☒ ☐ ☐ 7. A mirror of material appropriate to the level of security shall be provided as specified in Section ☒ ☐ ☐ 1230.2.11. 1230.1.27 Programs and activity areas. All juvenile facilities shall include adequate space for ☒ ☐ ☐ specific programs in addition to recreation and exercise areas. 1230.2.1 Toilets/urinals. All toilet areas shall provide privacy for the youth and ☒ ☐ ☐ help reduce the risk of voyeurism without mitigating staff’s ability to supervise. Toilets must be available in a ratio to youth as follows: ☒ ☐ ☐ 1. Juvenile halls 1:6; 2. Camps 1:10; and ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. Locked holding rooms 1:8: ☒ ☐ ☐ One toilet and one urinal may be substituted for every ☒ ☐ ☐ 15 males. 1230.2.2 Wash basins. In living units, wash basins must be available in a ratio ☒ ☐ ☐ to youth as follows: 1. Juvenile halls 1:6; 2. Camps 1:10; and ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. Locked holding rooms 1:8: ☒ ☐ ☐ Wash basis must be provided with hot and cold or ☒ ☐ ☐ tempered water. 1230.2.3 Drinking fountains. In living areas and indoor and outdoor recreation ☒ ☐ ☐ areas, drinking fountains must be accessible to youth and to staff. 1. The drinking fountain bubbler shall be on an angle which prevents waste water from flowing over the ☒ ☐ ☐ drinking bubbler; and, 2. The water flow shall be actuated by a mechanical ☒ ☐ ☐ means. 1230.2.4 Showers. Shower areas shall provide privacy for the youth and ☒ ☐ ☐ help reduce the risk of voyeurism without mitigating staff’s ability to supervise. Showers shall be available to all youth on a ratio of at least one shower or bathtub to every six youth. ☒ ☐ ☐ Showers shall be provided with tempered water. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 7 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 1230.2.5 Beds. ☒ ☐ ☐ Beds shall be at least 30 inches wide and 76 inches long and be of the solid bottom type. Beds shall be at least 12 inches off the floor and ☒ ☐ ☐ spaced no less than 36 inches apart Bunk beds must have no less than 33 inches vertically ☒ ☐ ☐ between the solid bottoms. In secure facilities, the bunks shall be securely ☒ ☐ ☐ anchored and flushed against the floor and/or wall. 1230.2.6 Lighting. Lighting in locked sleeping rooms, single occupancy ☒ ☐ ☐ rooms, double occupancy rooms, dormitories, day rooms and activity areas shall provide not less than 20 foot candles of illumination at desk level. Night lighting is required in these areas to provide for good visibility for supervision and be conducive to ☒ ☐ ☐ sleep. 1230.2.7 Padding. Padding in safety rooms, padding shall cover the ☒ ☐ ☐ entire floor, door, walls and everything on walls to a clear height of eight feet. Benches or platforms are not to be placed on the floor ☒ ☐ ☐ of this room. All padded rooms must be equipped with a tamper resistant fire sprinkler as approved by the State Fire ☒ ☐ ☐ Marshal. All padding must be: ☒ ☐ ☐ 1. Approved for use by the State Fire Marshal; 2. Nonporous to facilitate cleaning; ☒ ☐ ☐ 3. At least 112 inch thick; ☒ ☐ ☐ 4. Of a unitary or laminated construction to prevent its destruction by teeth, hand tearing or small metal ☒ ☐ ☐ objects; 5. Firmly bonded to all padded surfaces to prevent ☒ ☐ ☐ tearing or ripping; and, 6. Without any exposed seams susceptible to tearing ☒ ☐ ☐ or ripping. 1230.2.8 Seating. ☒ ☐ ☐ Seating shall be designed for the level of security. When bench seating is used, 18 inches of bench is ☒ ☐ ☐ seating for one person. 1230.2.9 Weapons lockers. Weapons lockers are required in all secure juvenile ☒ ☐ ☐ facilities and shall be located outside the secure area of the facility. Weapons lockers shall be equipped with individual ☒ ☐ ☐ compartments, each with an individual locking device. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 8 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) TITLE 24 SECTION YES NO N/A COMMENTS 1230.2.10 Security glazing. Security glazing shall comply with the minimum requirements of one of the following test standards: American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM F ☒ ☐ ☐ 1233-98, Class III glass, or; California Department of Corrections, CDC 860-94d, Class C glass or; H.P. White Laboratory, Inc., HPW-TP-0500.02, Forced Entry Level III. 1230.2.11 Mirrors. A mirror of a material appropriate to the level of ☒ ☐ ☐ security must be provided near each wash basin specified in these regulations. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI PHY 25-26 - 9 - J456 JUV PHY eff. 1.1.20 (25-26) JUVENILE HALLS, SPECIAL PURPOSE JUVENILE HALLS, AND CAMPS LIVING AREA SPACE EVALUATION Board of State and Community Corrections BSCC Code: 7327, 7328, 7330 FACILITY: TYPE: RC: Iris Garrett Juvenile Justice Corrections Complex (IGJJCC) JH – 60 JH/SYTF/Camp (7327), SYTF – 30 Camp – 30 Merced Secure Youth Treatment Facility (7328), Bear Creek Academy Youth Camp (7330) Total: 120 FIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Eric Raley DATE October 23, 2025 ROOMS EACH ROOM EACH ROOM FIXTURES* Unit Room Applicable # Total DIMENSIONS Designation Type Standards Rooms RC (L x W x H) # Beds RC T U W F S Intake 1 Safety 1998 1 (1) (1) 64 sq. ft. 1 Intake 2-3 Holding 1998 2 (2) (2) 70 sq. ft. 1 1 1 Bench space limits seating. Medical 6 Holding 1998 1 84 sq. ft. Not used unless a WIC 601 is delivered to the facility. Intake 8 Booking 1998 1 110 sq. ft. 1 1 1 Bench space limits seating. Medical Exam 1998 1 144 sq. ft. Room There are three confidential interview rooms (Intake 4, 5, 7); Booking showers (Intake 10); Property Storage (Intake 11); and Facility Storage (Intake 12) as well as the Control Station in the Intake area. Intake 9 is the passthrough hallway to the Court area. Building #1: Juvenile Hall (Pop: 11) A S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 sq. ft 1 1 1 A D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq. ft. 1 1 1 B S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 Sq. ft. 1 1 1 B D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq. ft. 1 1 1 C S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 sq. ft. 1 1 1 C D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq ft. 1 1 1 D S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 sq. ft. 1 1 1 D D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq. ft. 1 1 1 *T = Toilets; U = Urinals; W = Wash Basins; F = Fountains; S = Showers in unit. If "Total RC" appears in brackets ( ), it is not part of the facility's rated capacity. "+" indicates that capacity includes prorated air space from adjacent areas. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI LASE 25-25 Page 1 of 2 J460 LASE Juvenile.dot (rev.12/23) ROOMS EACH ROOM EACH ROOM FIXTURES* Unit Room Applicable # Total DIMENSIONS Designation Type Standards Rooms RC (L x W x H) # Beds RC T U W F S Each unit has 3 Showers, 2 sinks with fountains and 840 sq. ft. of dayroom space. There are common dayrooms between A-B and C-D. There is 775 sq. ft. of classroom space off each dayroom, a recreation area off each unit, and storage/laundry facilities in each unit. There are 2 interview rooms and a Multi-Purpose/Dining area in the middle of Wings A/B – C/D. Building #2: Bear Creek Academy Camp (Pop: 12); Secure Youth Treatment Facility (Pop: 5) E S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 sq. ft 1 1 1 E D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq. ft. 1 1 1 F S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 Sq. ft. 1 1 1 F D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq. ft. 1 1 1 G S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 sq. ft. 1 1 1 G D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq ft. 1 1 1 H S 1998 5 1 1 5 80 sq. ft. 1 1 1 H D 1998 5 2 2 10 110 sq. ft. 1 1 1 Each unit has 3 Showers, 2 sinks with fountains, and 840 sq. ft. of dayroom space. There are common dayrooms between E-F and G-H. There is 775 sq. ft. of classroom space off each dayroom, a recreation area off each unit, and storage/laundry facilities in each unit. There are 2 interview rooms and a Multi-Purpose/Dining area in the middle of Wings E/F – G/H. *T = Toilets; U = Urinals; W = Wash Basins; F = Fountains; S = Showers in unit. If "Total RC" appears in brackets ( ), it is not part of the facility's rated capacity. "+" indicates that capacity includes prorated air space from adjacent areas. 7327+ Merced PROB JH Camp SYTF CI LASE 25-25 Page 2 of 2 J460 LASE Juvenile.dot (rev.12/23)