Vermont’s Youth Custody: Concerns Over Physical Restraints and Seclusions
In Vermont, troubling revelations have emerged regarding the treatment of youth in state custody, as new data highlights hundreds of incidents involving physical restraints and seclusions in residential facilities. Nate Farnham, who was removed from his mother’s custody at the age of 6, recounts his traumatic experiences in the Brattleboro Retreat, where he endured violent restraints that have had a lasting psychological impact.
Recent figures reveal over 500 documented instances of restraint and seclusion among youths in state care during 2023 and 2024, raising concerns among advocates and officials alike. These practices, which involve forcibly immobilizing or isolating children, are utilized as safety measures but can be psychologically damaging, stripping away a child’s sense of autonomy.
While administrators claim they aim to reduce these interventions, Vermont’s Child, Youth, and Family Advocate, Matthew Bernstein, emphasizes the need for stronger oversight to protect vulnerable youth. A 2023 law mandates reporting all restraint incidents, yet advocates suggest the reported numbers represent just a fraction of actual occurrences.
Facilities like Seall in Bennington have faced increased scrutiny, particularly following the closure of Vermont’s only youth detention center, which has complicated the care for youths with complex needs. Efforts to create a supportive environment continue, but the data indicates that troubling incidents persist.
Legislation aiming to reform these practices is in progress, with proposals emphasizing accountability and training for staff to utilize alternatives to restraint and seclusion. As discussions grow within the Vermont legislature, advocates are urging for immediate action to prevent potential future tragedies resulting from these interventions. The situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reform in Vermont’s juvenile care system.
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