Judicial Youth Institution for Rotterdam Youth
A judicial youth institution (JJI) is a secure facility for young people from Rotterdam aged 12 to 23 who have been sentenced by the Rotterdam District Court to a custodial sentence or placed in pre-trial detention. These facilities enforce sentences, maintain order, and promote reintegration through education, therapy, and sports activities. They operate under the Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI) and play a key role in youth criminal justice in the Rotterdam region.
What does a judicial youth institution mean for Rotterdam?
JJIs house young people from Rotterdam and surrounding areas who have committed offenses such as shoplifting in the city, violent incidents, or drug possession. Beyond sentence enforcement, the emphasis is on personal development and safe reintegration into Rotterdam society. Unlike open youth care facilities, JJIs feature heavy security including fences, surveillance, and trained staff.
The Netherlands has nine JJIs, with locations near Rotterdam such as in The Hague or Veenhuizen. Groups consist of 8-12 young people, each with private rooms equipped with a bed, desk, and bathroom. The daily regime is structured: lessons, work, sports, and personalized guidance.
Legal frameworks for JJI placement from Rotterdam
JJIs are governed by youth criminal law, specifically Title IIa Criminal Code (arts. 77a-77zz Sr) and Youth Act (art. 2.1 et seq.). The regime follows the Start Regime Scheme for Youth Institutions and Placement Conditions for Youth Institutions (PvJI). The Penitentiary Principles Act (Pbw) applies in limited ways for security purposes, with youth protections under the Youth Act.
The juvenile judge at the Rotterdam District Court orders placement through an interim or final ruling. For PIJ (art. 77c Sr), this can last up to 7 years, subject to periodic review.
When does the Rotterdam District Court order placement in a JJI?
Placement from Rotterdam occurs in cases of:
- Youth detention (JD): Short custodial sentence of up to 7 days per offense (art. 77g Sv).
- PIJ: Treatment measure for serious offenses (art. 77c Sr).
- ISD: For persistent offenders (art. 77q Sr).
- Pre-trial detention: During police investigation (art. 77ee Sv).
The public prosecutor submits the request to the Rotterdam District Court; for minor cases, HALT or a warning may suffice, but repetition or risk leads to JJI placement.
Daily life in a JJI for Rotterdam youth
A typical day looks like this:
- 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 necessary.
- 21:30 - Lights out.
Education is provided at the appropriate level (from VMBO to VWO), along with vocational training and therapy for aggression or addiction. Weekly family visits; later, escorted leave toward Rotterdam.
Example 1: Jamal from Rotterdam-South
16-year-old Jamal from Rotterdam-South commits burglaries. The Rotterdam District Court imposes 2 years PIJ. He attends classes, receives therapy for impulsivity, and plays soccer. After a year, escorted leave and successful reintegration in the neighborhood.
Example 2: Pre-trial detention in Rotterdam
A 15-year-old boy from Rotterdam spends 3 weeks in a JJI for a suspected robbery. Daily updates are sent to the examining magistrate at the Rotterdam District Court.
Rights and obligations in a JJI
Rights:
- Education and medical care (art. 3 PvJI).
- Family visits and phone calls.
- Filing complaints with management or the juvenile judge.
- Equal treatment and freedom of religion.
Obligations:
- Follow rules, no drugs or violence.
- Participate actively in the program.
- Cooperate with mentors.
Violations lead to measures such as room confinement (max. 14 days, art. 28 Start Regime Scheme).
| Measure | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Youth detention | 1-7 days | Warning |
| PIJ | 1-7 years | Rehabilitation |
| ISD | 2 years | Recidivism prevention |
Frequently asked questions about JJI in Rotterdam
Can family visit a JJI?
Yes, weekly for 1-2 hours under supervision. ID and checks required. Normal schedule resumed post-COVID.
Objection to placement by Rotterdam District Court?
Yes, within 7 days to the juvenile judge (art. 77gg Sv). Contact Rotterdam Legal Desk or a lawyer for assistance.
How long is the stay in a JJI?
Depends on type: JD is short-term, PIJ up to years with 6-monthly reviews. Behavior affects length.
Is education mandatory?
Yes, brought to appropriate level with recognized diplomas for return to Rotterdam schools.
Tips for Rotterdam parents and youth
- For parents: Stay involved through visits and mentor contact. Seek free advice from Rotterdam Legal Desk or Municipality of Rotterdam for support.
- For youth: Engage with your program for faster leave and a better future in the city.