Statement from Voices for Children on Reports of Staff Sexual Abuse at YRTC-Kearney 

The recent revelations of sexual abuse involving youth in state custody at the YRTC Kearney facility are a devastating reminder of the systemic failures still embedded in Nebraska’s youth justice system. Voices for Children in Nebraska is gravely concerned that reporting indicates children’s safety was ignored or disbelieved, in the face of ongoing and repeated allegations and evidence of staff misconduct. When a young person reports harm or abuse is suspected, the system must respond with urgency and care, not silence and delay. Some of these allegations, which were reported months ago, appear to have only surfaced because a judge and a court-appointed attorney were diligent. That should not be the exception. It should be the standard.

Large-scale, prison-like institutions with inadequate staffing ratios are not healthy and safe environments for youth. Youth in secure facilities are at an increased risk for sexual abuse that may go unreported, without investigation or consequences. Research and practice show that smaller, community-based programs are more effective and safer for youth and the community. Instead of investing in facilities that isolate children far from home and away from trusted adults, we should be shifting resources toward local, therapeutic, and youth-centered supports. 

Additionally, many young people in Nebraska still do not have guaranteed legal counsel throughout their time in state custody, leaving them vulnerable and unheard. With Legislative Resolution 170 (LR 170) already introduced by Senator Rountree to examine youth access to counsel, lawmakers must treat this moment not as an isolated incident but as a clear call to action. Every child facing juvenile court proceedings and possible removal from home, including those at YRTC-Kearney, deserves meaningful access to an independent, well-qualified advocate to protect their rights.

For loved ones of youth currently committed to YRTC-Kearney, here are immediate steps and resources: 

• For youth with cases in Douglas County: If your child is represented by the Douglas County Public Defender’s office, attorneys are initiating a case review. At least one judge has set an expectation for ample time during scheduled review hearings to check in confidentially regarding their placement and safety. If your child is represented by a private attorney or other appointed counsel, you should follow up with them to ensure the same review occurs.
• For youth outside Douglas County: Families can contact your child’s attorney to request a commitment review. If no attorney is currently assigned, you can contact their probation officer, the bailiff, or the clerk of the court in the county where the case was filed to request guidance or the next steps in scheduling a review hearing and having a lawyer appointed.
• In Nebraska, anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect, including sexual abuse, is a mandatory reporter: The child abuse and neglect hotline is staffed by a different wing of the Department of Health and Human Services. If your child discloses abuse to you or to others, there is a legal obligation to report. The hotline can be reached via online portal or at 1-800-652-1999.
• If you have particular concerns or complaints about your child’s treatment, the Inspector General for Child Welfare can receive and investigate them confidentially. Information can be found here regarding their process for filing a complaint.

For all of us:

This moment also calls for leadership from the Nebraska Legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee, which is well-positioned to examine facility management and the child abuse and neglect reporting process, and to advance meaningful oversight and reform to protect Nebraska’s youth. Members of the public who are concerned about the safety of youth in state facilities are encouraged to contact the committee and urge them to initiate a full legislative investigation.

When even one child is harmed, the system has failed. We owe every young person safety, dignity, and someone in their corner who will listen and believe them.