Judicial Youth Institution
A judicial youth institution (JJI) is a secure facility for young people aged 12 to 23 from areas such as Leiden, sentenced by the Leiden District Court to a custodial measure or held in pre-trial detention. Managed by the Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI), these facilities combine sentence enforcement with structure, education, therapy, and sports to support resocialization. They play a vital role in the youth justice system for Leiden youth.
What exactly is a judicial youth institution?
JJIs house young people from Leiden and surrounding areas who have committed offenses such as shoplifting in the city center, fights, or drug possession. Beyond enforcing sentences, the emphasis is on personal development and safe reintegration into society. Unlike open youth care facilities, JJIs are heavily secured with fences, surveillance, and trained staff.
The Netherlands has nine JJIs, including Blokhuispoort in Leeuwarden and Toekomstfabriek in Veenhuizen. Youth from Leiden are often placed in nearby locations. Living groups accommodate 8-12 residents, each with private rooms featuring a bed, desk, and bathroom. The daily schedule is strict: classes, work, sports, and therapy follow a fixed timetable.
Legal framework for JJI placement
JJIs are governed by youth criminal law, particularly Title IIa of the Dutch Criminal Code (arts. 77a-77zz Sr) and the Youth Act (art. 2.1 et seq.). The regime adheres to the Starter Scheme for Youth Institutions and the Placement Conditions for Youth Institutions (PvJI).
The Penitentiary Principles Act (Pbw) applies in limited form for security purposes (art. 24 Pbw), with youth protections under the Youth Custody Act. The juvenile judge at the Leiden District Court decides on admission through a pro forma or final judgment. For PIJ (art. 77c Sr), placement can last up to 7 years, subject to periodic review.
When does a young person from Leiden enter a JJI?
Placement occurs in cases of:
- Youth detention (JD): Short-term sanction up to 7 days per offense (art. 77g Sv).
- PIJ: Treatment for serious crimes (art. 77c Sr).
- ISD: For repeat offenders (art. 77q Sr).
- Pre-trial detention: During police investigation (art. 77ee Sv).
The public prosecutor submits the request to the Leiden District Court; the judge decides. For minor offenses, HALT or youth detention may suffice, but repetition or risk leads to JJI placement.
Daily life in a JJI
A typical day proceeds as follows:
- 07:00 - Morning routine and breakfast.
- 08:30 - Education or work until 15:00.
- 15:00 - Sports, therapy, or recreation.
- 17:00 - Dinner.
- 20:00 - Evening program or isolation if required.
- 21:30 - Lights out.
Education is provided at all levels (VMBO to VWO), along with vocational training and therapy for aggression or addiction. Weekly family visits; leave granted after time served.
Example 1: Jamal from Leiden
16-year-old Jamal from Leiden breaks into student housing. The Leiden District Court imposes a 2-year PIJ order. He attends classes, impulsivity therapy, and basketball. After a year, he transitions successfully to supervised leave and returns to Leiden.
Example 2: Pre-trial detention
A 15-year-old from Leiden spends 3 weeks in JJI pre-trial detention on robbery suspicion. Daily reports are sent to the examining magistrate.
Rights and obligations in a JJI
Rights:
- Education and medical care (art. 3 PvJI).
- Family visits and phone calls.
- Filing complaints with management or juvenile judge.
- No discrimination; freedom of religion.
Obligations:
- Follow rules; no drugs or violence.
- Participate in therapy.
- Cooperate with mentors.
Violations lead to measures such as room isolation (max. 14 days, art. 28 Starter Scheme).
| Measure | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Youth detention | 1-7 days | Deterrent effect |
| PIJ | 1-7 years | Treatment |
| ISD | 2 years | Repeat offenders |
Frequently asked questions
Can I receive visits in a JJI?
Yes, family and friends weekly for 1-2 hours, with ID checks and searches. Contact Leiden Legal Aid Office for details.
Disagree with placement?
Appeal to the juvenile judge within 7 days (art. 77gg Sv). Seek assistance from a lawyer via Leiden Legal Aid Office.
How long does detention last?
Depends on type: JD is short-term; PIJ up to years with 6-monthly reviews. Good behavior aids release.
Is education available?
Yes, mandatory and tailored. Diplomas remain valid for further studies in Leiden.
Tips for Leiden residents
- For parents: Stay involved through visits and mentor contact. Get free advice from Leiden Legal Aid Office or the Municipality of Leiden for support.
- For youth: Engage with your program for faster resocialization and return to Leiden.