Concerns Mount Over TrueCore Behavioral Solutions Following Tragic Death at Tampa Juvenile Facility
TAMPA, Fla. — Controversy Surrounds TrueCore Behavioral Solutions Following Tragic Death of Teen at Lake Academy
Last month, the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) made headlines by terminating a five-year, $31.5 million contract with TrueCore Behavioral Solutions after the tragic death of a 17-year-old girl at Lake Academy in Tampa. As the I-Team continues to investigate, concerns are mounting about the company’s track record and calls for the state to sever all ties with TrueCore are growing louder.
A recently obtained video by the I-Team reveals the unsettling state of Lake Academy after students, teachers, and staff vacated the premises. Mattresses, which were not part of the facility’s intended setup, covered the classroom floors, raising questions about the living conditions for the young residents. Instead of being confined to cinderblock cells equipped with metal toilets, it appears that the facility was in disarray.
Former teachers, including Barb Wishart-Harley, who worked at Lake Academy for a year, have come forward with alarming accounts of the environment. “There was a ratio requirement by the Department of Juvenile Justice of one adult to every five students,” she explained, emphasizing that TrueCore staff often failed to adhere to these guidelines. Wishart-Harley recounted her own harrowing experience, stating, “I ended up with a concussion” after being assaulted by a student while TrueCore employees looked on.
The troubling incidents extend beyond Wishart-Harley’s experience. Other former teachers have reported being assaulted by students, with one woman even stabbed with her own car keys. “It was just a complete downhill spiral the entire time,” she said, highlighting the chaotic atmosphere that permeated the facility.
The death of the 15-year-old girl in late May has intensified scrutiny on TrueCore. “I hope we find out what happened, why it happened, and how on earth it happened in a facility where every door is locked, there are windows, and there are cameras,” Wishart-Harley lamented.
Parents of children who have been in TrueCore facilities are also speaking out. Lydia Perkins and Timothy Huff expressed their concerns for their special needs son, who faced bullying and injuries at a TrueCore-operated facility. “There’s no reason for a child to die in these programs,” Perkins stated, echoing the sentiments of many who believe the system is failing the youth it is meant to protect.
The troubling history of TrueCore is not new. Previous incidents at other DJJ facilities operated by private contractors have raised alarms, including riots and allegations of sexual assault. In 2013, Highlands Youth Academy, then operated by G4S Youth Services, faced severe scrutiny after a violent incident left several children hospitalized. Following that, TrueCore emerged from the remnants of G4S, yet concerns about its operations have persisted.
Despite the mounting evidence and testimonies, TrueCore has maintained its innocence regarding the recent tragedy. A spokesperson stated, “The passing of this young lady is a tragedy for all involved. However, neither TrueCore nor its management or employees are in any way culpable for this saddening loss.” They emphasized their commitment to following all rules and regulations to provide effective treatment and rehabilitation.
As the DJJ remains tight-lipped about potential future actions regarding TrueCore contracts, the community is left grappling with the implications of these revelations. The tragic death of a young girl has sparked a critical conversation about the safety and efficacy of juvenile detention programs in Florida, and many are demanding accountability and reform.
For those with stories to share or concerns to raise, the I-Team encourages individuals to reach out via email. The conversation surrounding juvenile justice in Florida is far from over, and the community is watching closely as developments unfold.