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NewsWFLA News TampaAugust 15, 2026Hillsborough

Florida Department of Juvenile Justice closes Hillsborough Regional Juvenile Detention Center

The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice is closing the Hillsborough Regional Juvenile Detention Center, requiring youth currently held there to be transferred to facilities in surrounding counties. Local agencies, including the State Attorney’s Office and Hillsborough County Public Schools, report they were notified of the closure only this week.

juvenile justicepublic safetyfacility closuretransportationHillsborough County
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Why It Matters

The closure forces families and legal counsel to travel to neighboring counties to visit detained youth, potentially complicating access to legal representation and family support.

Key Facts

  • The Hillsborough Regional Juvenile Detention Center is closing.
  • Approximately 38 youth are currently housed at the facility.
  • Detained youth will be transferred to facilities in surrounding counties, including Pasco and Polk.
  • Local agencies, including the State Attorney's Office and school district, were notified of the decision this week.
  • The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice stated the closure is part of a long-planned effort to transition to a new facility and address future property use.
  • Safe and Sound Hillsborough is exploring transportation assistance for families and alternatives to secure detention.
  • The department has not provided a specific timeline for when a new facility will open.
  • Concerns exist regarding potential capacity issues at detention centers in surrounding counties.

Who's Mentioned

locationPasco County“Potential destination for transferred youth.”personFreddy Barton“Executive director of Safe and Sound Hillsborough.”personTanya Arja“Chief of Communications for Hillsborough County Public Schools.”organizationFlorida Department of Juvenile Justice“The state agency responsible for the closure decision.”organizationHillsborough State Attorney’s Office“Local legal agency notified of the closure.”locationHillsborough Regional Juvenile Detention Center“The facility being closed.”locationPolk County“Potential destination for transferred youth.”