What type of child should a secure juvenile detention facility be used to house?

A secure juvenile detention facility is designed specifically to house children who have been charged with a delinquent act. This type of facility is intended for youths who have potentially committed offenses that warrant a temporary removal from the community while legal proceedings are underway. The focus of juvenile detention is on safety and security, as well as providing a structured environment that allows for assessment and intervention while the youth is awaiting trial or adjudication.

In contrast, a child awaiting a custody evaluation is typically involved in family court proceedings rather than criminal matters, and may not require the same level of security. Similarly, a child involved in a civil lawsuit does not fall under the category of juvenile delinquency, as these cases do not pertain to criminal behavior but rather to disputes between parties that do not require detention. Lastly, a child simply suspected of misbehavior has not been formally charged with an offense, and thus would not meet the criteria for placement in a secure juvenile detention facility.

This highlights that the primary function of secure juvenile detention is to manage those who have already been charged, ensuring their safety and that of the community while the legal process unfolds.