Judicial Youth Institution for Young People from Delft
A judicial youth institution (JJI) is a secure facility for young people aged 12 to 23 from areas such as Delft who have been sentenced by the District Court of The Hague to a custodial sentence or are in pre-trial detention. Managed by the Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI), these institutions combine enforcement of sentences with structure, education, therapy, and sports to promote resocialization. They form a key part of the youth criminal justice system for residents of Delft.
What exactly is a judicial youth institution?
JJIs house young people from Delft and surrounding areas who have committed offenses such as theft, assault, or drug trafficking. In addition to enforcing sentences, the emphasis is on personal development and safe reintegration into society, for example, returning to school or work in Delft. Unlike open youth care facilities, JJIs are heavily secured with fences, surveillance, and trained staff.
The Netherlands has nine JJIs, including Blokhuispoort in Leeuwarden, Toekomstfabriek in Veenhuizen, and Praktijkhuis De Hulst in Zutphen. Young people from Delft are placed in living groups of 8-12, with private rooms including a bed, desk, and bathroom. The daily regime is strict: education, work, sports, and guidance are central.
Legal basis for JJIs
JJIs are governed by youth criminal law, specifically Title IIa of the Criminal Code (arts. 77a-77zz Sr) and the Youth Act (art. 2.1 et seq.). Placement and rules are based on the Youth Institutions Admission Scheme and the Youth Institutions Placement Conditions (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 District Court of The Hague decides via interim or final judgments. PIJ measures (art. 77c Sr) last up to 7 years, with periodic reviews.
When is a young person from Delft placed in a JJI?
Placement by the District Court of The Hague occurs in cases of:
- Youth detention (JD): Short custodial sentences of up to 7 days per offense (art. 77g CCP).
- PIJ: Treatment for serious offenses (art. 77c Sr).
- ISD: For repeat offenders (art. 77q Sr).
- Pre-trial detention: During police investigations (art. 77ee CCP).
The public prosecutor submits the request; the judge decides. For less serious cases in Delft, alternatives like HALT or lighter sanctions often suffice, but repetition or risk may lead to a JJI.
Daily life in a JJI
A standard day proceeds as follows:
- 07:00 - Wake up, toilet, 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.
Tailored education (VMBO to VWO level), vocational training, and therapy for aggression or addiction are provided. Family visits are weekly; leave becomes available later for resocialization, including back to Delft.
Example 1: Jamal (16) from Delft
Jamal from Delft commits burglaries in the city center. The District Court of The Hague imposes a 2-year PIJ measure. In the JJI, he attends classes, impulse control therapy, and basketball. After a year, he returns to the Municipality of Delft on supervised leave.
Example 2: Pre-trial detention
A 15-year-old from Delft is suspected of robbery. She spends 3 weeks in a JJI pre-trial detention unit, with daily updates to the examining magistrate.
Rights and obligations in a JJI
Rights:
- Education and medical care (art. 3 PvJI).
- Visits and phone calls with family.
- Filing complaints with management or the juvenile judge.
- Equal treatment and freedom of religion.
Obligations:
- Comply with rules, no drugs or violence.
- Participate in therapy.
- Cooperate with mentors.
Violations result in measures such as room isolation (max. 14 days, art. 28 Admission 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, weekly 1-2 hours with family or friends from Delft, under supervision. ID and checks required. Standard regime has resumed post-COVID.
Disagree with placement?
Appeal to the juvenile judge at the District Court of The Hague within 7 days (art. 77gg CCP). Contact Juridisch Loket Delft for assistance with appeals or DJI complaints.
How long will I stay?
Depends on type: JD for days, PIJ for years with 6-monthly reviews. Good behavior speeds up return to Delft.
Is education provided?
Yes, mandatory and at appropriate level, with diplomas valid for continuation at Delft schools.
Tips for residents of Delft
- For parents: Stay involved through visits and mentor contact. Seek free advice from Juridisch Loket Delft or appeal via the District Court of The Hague.
- For young people: Engage with the program for faster resocialization. Request aftercare support from the Municipality of Delft.