A Conversation with Will Harrell: Perspective of a Federal M

Almost four years ago, the State of Ohio entered into a sweeping settlement after a federal class action was filed in S.H. v. Stickrath (now S.H v. Reed) based on the unsafe and unconstitutional conditions of youth who were housed in state correctional facilities. In a 90-page stipulation for injunctive relief, framed by guiding principles, the State agreed to do much more than remedy conditions of confinement of Ohio's youth. The Ohio Department of Youth Services also agreed to work to keep youth in more community-based treatment options and examine their approach of assisting youth from front to back. To ensure compliance, the federal court appoints a Monitor to oversee a team to assist and ensure progress is being made under the stipulation. Will Harrell was appointed Monitor in S.H. and on January 5, 2012 filed his annual monitoring report. Mr. Harrell joins this episode of Spotlight on Youth to provide an overview of the unique role of a Monitor and monitoring team and how it works in conjunction with the State, plaintiff's attorneys, and other interested parties. He will also discuss his findings outlined in the recently filed annual report, including successes and priorities for continued improvement, and provide thoughts about the ongoing opportunities and challenges Ohio faces as it works on its overall juvenile justice reform efforts.