Harris County Juvenile Justice Center closed until further notice, officials say

HOUSTON – The Harris County Juvenile Justice Center will be closed until further notice, officials said Friday.

The center, located at 1200 Congress, had a sign posted on the door to inform people of the sudden closure. Officials said one person is being tested for coronavirus.

County officials have not clarified if the person they’re testing for coronavirus was a visitor, staff member or a juvenile in custody.

Meanwhile, people continued showing up to the center and finding the doors locked and signs stating the facility was closed.

“I called in yesterday at 4:40 and I was told the hearing is going to proceed today at 9,” said Ali Sheikadehera, who was visibly upset.

Sheikadehera said he received no notice that his appointment had been canceled or rescheduled, and he was not alone.

“I don’t know what to do, I don’t know who to call,” said a mother who did not want to be identified, but said she was at the juvenile justice center to give her teenage daughter her inhaler.

“She needs to have her inhaler at all times… she has to have it,” the mother said.

She banged on front doors to the center to no avail and eventually walked off in frustration.

Officials said the detention side of the center is open for juvenile detention operations only, and the courts and office wing are fully closed to all.

No employees or officials, regardless of position, will be allowed to enter the facilities court and office wing, officials said.


About the Authors:

Prairie View A&M University graduate with a master’s degree in Digital Media Studies from Sam Houston State. Delta woman. Proud aunt. Lover of the color purple. 💜