Reform juvenile justice

Re the June 14 story State staff disciplined after jailed teen’s death: Once again Florida has failed its children. For Vicki Alves to receive a five-day suspension and her deputy and the guards and officers to receive written reprimands for the death of teen Andre Sheffield is a gross injustice.

If the state wants to change the culture of its juvenile-justice system, it needs to terminate those in leadership positions who fail to follow procedures that protect children. These positions are — or should be — at-will employees who can be terminated with or without cause. This will send a clear message that Florida is sincere in changing an abusive and neglectful culture to one that protects and better serves the children of our state.

For over a decade, this has not occurred. Could it be the result of our children’s lack of a political lobbyist or their inability to cast votes that results in such apathy from elected officials? How many more children must be injured or die at the hands of those who are sworn to protect them before any real changes occur?

This story was originally published June 15, 2015 at 7:52 PM with the headline "Reform juvenile justice."