LINCOLN HILLS AND COPPER LAKE CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES ACHIEVE FULL COMPLIANCE

IRMA – State officials say Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake have achieved full compliance with all court-ordered reforms — a first for the youth correctional facilities.

The Lincoln County sites have been under quarterly review by a court-appointed monitor to track progress on 50 required changes, including staffing, training, and limits on restraints and pepper spray. A new report released this week confirms all goals have now been met, though the Department of Corrections must maintain compliance for several more reviews before oversight can end. DOC Secretary Jared Hoy called it a major step toward creating a better environment for both staff and youth.

The State’s long-term plan is to replace Lincoln Hills with smaller, regional youth facilities. The first, in the Milwaukee area, is expected to open next year. Lincoln Hills will then be converted to an adult correctional facility.