COVID-19 DJJ Information and Resources
As you all are aware, we are all dealing with the constantly evolving Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) situation. Here at the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, we want to assure you that we always prioritize the wellbeing of youth in our custody and are taking all necessary precautions and monitoring events closely related to the COVID-19 situation. Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-52 declaring a State of Emergency for COVID-19 on March 9, 2020 which allows for state departments and agencies to better coordinate our response, and we are actively engaged in those efforts.
We find it necessary to restrict the movement of individuals into our facilities. As a part of this measure, and for the safety of children and staff inside of the facilities, the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice has issued an emergency order that will restrict visitors until April 15th, 2020 and then will evaluate the health and safety of resuming normal visitation protocols.
We assure you that we will work diligently to maintain regular telephone communication, and if feasible video conferencing, between youth and their families. We have instituted additional screening measures for outside vendors who work within our juvenile facilities and non-essential travel of our staff members has been stopped. Clinical personnel, however, are still permitted to visit youth for treatment purposes, instructional personnel are permitted to provide educational services, and attorneys are permitted to conduct legal visits with youth. We will continue to closely monitor the health and safety of children inside our facilities to ensure they receive any necessary medical attention related to COVID-19. Thank you for your patience as we work to prevent and contain the spread of COVID-19.
Parents or family members with questions about visitation should contact the facility where their child is located. You can locate contact information here: http://www.djj.state.fl.us/programs-facilities
Department of Juvenile Justice COVID-19 Press Releases
DJJ Press Releases
Additional Resources