(Editor’s note: This story contains allegations of sexual abuse of children. If you suspect that a child has been abused, call 800-652-1999 or report online.)
Nebraska’s Kearney Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center is at the center of a troubling investigation as allegations of sexual misconduct by staff members have come to light. With the state’s child welfare watchdog delving into these claims, and the governor vowing accountability, the situation underscores potential systemic issues at the facility.
Recent developments, including a court order and new allegations from a teenager, highlight ongoing concerns about the Kearney center’s environment. Douglas County Juvenile Court Judge Amy Schuchman emphasized in a recent order that the problem extends beyond the abuse itself to the “systematic minimization, concealment, and disregard by those in charge of his care.”
The allegations, initially surfaced during court proceedings, implicate four employees and involve three teenage boys. Another teen has since come forward with accusations against one of the staff members, according to Douglas County Public Defender Tom Riley.
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, which manages Kearney and two other juvenile centers, confirmed that since September 1, five teens have been relocated from the Kearney facility due to these allegations.
Jay Wilson, who leads the union representing youth security staff at YRTC, stated that FOP 88 was not previously aware of any widespread issues of sexual misconduct among its members. “I just hope all the allegations are not true,” he expressed, reinforcing that the union does not support such behavior under any circumstances.
Concerns about inadequate programming have been a longstanding issue among Kearney YRTC staff affiliated with the Nebraska Association of Public Employees (NAPE), such as nurses and administrative personnel. Executive Director Justin Hubly noted that these issues have yet to be addressed by management. Notably, none of the accused staff are members of NAPE.
The Department of Health and Human Services assures that the facility’s daily programming and treatment are based on “evidence-based practices.” Alycia Davis, a DHHS spokesperson, urged the union to engage with DHHS leadership regarding any concerns, noting that this was the first such report they had received.
Governor Jim Pillen’s office has made it clear that, should the allegations prove true, there will be severe consequences. “The Governor has made clear to DHHS leadership that he has zero tolerance for such inappropriate and illegal behavior by those entrusted with the safekeeping of juveniles in state custody,” stated spokesperson Laura Strimple. She added that employees involved in such actions, along with any negligent managerial staff, would face termination and potential prosecution.
