Secure detention placement and juvenile protection proceedings
Except where the child was alleged to have committed a delinquent act before August 1, 2026, following the effective date, a facility that is currently licensed as a secure detention facility may only hold a child age 10-12 for up to 24 hours. This should only be used if there is no less restrictive setting available.
After 24 hours, the child must be released to the least restrictive setting as required according to Minnesota Statutes §§ 260C.176 and 260C.181. Depending on the circumstances, this may be a duly licensed shelter care facility or group residential facility.
As with any other juvenile protection proceeding, the paramount consideration in all juvenile protection proceedings is the health, safety, and best interests of the child. Minnesota Statutes § 260C.001, subd. 2. After 24 hours, a secure detention facility that is dually licensed as a shelter care facility or a group residential facility, may transfer the child to that non-secure area under the standards in Minnesota Statutes
§ 260C.176 and § 260C.181.
DOC Foster Care/Group Residential Services placement
The Department of Corrections Inspection and Enforcement Unit encourages providers to work with local partners, including social services, courts, and law enforcement to ensure appropriate placements are made in the best interest of the child.
For questions, please reach out to your assigned inspector.
