My son was recenlty transferred there, so I was wondering if anyone knows about this place. I've heard only negative things, so I'm concerned for him. It shows online that it holds violent inmates, and my son is not at all a violent person. Thanks much!

Actually, I think the more violent youth offenders are housed at MacLaren. Any youth lockup is not going to be that good a place to be but if you can visit and write and keep in touch with his P.O. about what's going on with him - and encourage him to do well in whatever programs he's placed in, then hopefully he can move a lower security level before too much time passes. Really pay attention to his moods in his communications to you - if you feel he's getting depressed, be sure to communicate with his counselor there. I think kids hurting themselves is more of an issue than hurting each other in those institutions. Sorry you're having to go through this - it's tough for any mom.

Thank you so much. I will definatley watch to see how he progresses. He said they might transfer him still to Maclaren in a few weeks depending on his assessment. Can you tell me anythng about that place? I get to see him on sunday. Do you know if I will get to have a contact visit or will it still be behind glass?

I believe it will be a contact visit, unless he's been in some kind of trouble there. MacLaren - they have different programs in different housing units. You don't say how old your son is but they generally put the older boys at MacLaren. MacLaren also, I believe, has a sex offender unit and a violent offender unit. All kids participate in some type of treatment program while there. Besides the assessments, the OYA takes into account age and physical size when placing kids, I'm told.

Welcome to PTO! Under the prison profiles subforum, there are a couple lengthy posts about Hillcrest. I have visited there before and have had a couple family members end up there. It is not a great place for them, but visiting wasn't too bad when I was there. They did use to allow you to bring them things, like shoes, when you went to visit. You could also buy hot food from the canteen, so be sure to bring money in. Processing took forever, so arrive early. Take care.

I believe it will be a contact visit, unless he's been in some kind of trouble there. MacLaren - they have different programs in different housing units. You don't say how old your son is but they generally put the older boys at MacLaren. MacLaren also, I believe, has a sex offender unit and a violent offender unit. All kids participate in some type of treatment program while there. Besides the assessments, the OYA takes into account age and physical size when placing kids, I'm told.

Thank you again...My son is 18, he was going to stay @ coffee creek. But, because the incident happened (drug charges) when he was under age. He was elegible to be transferred here. I was able to speak to his counselor today and she said, he's much safer @ Hillcrest then, CC. She seemed nice enough. I just don't think he belongs there. But, like you said... there really isn't a good place. But, you been alot of help. Thank you god bless!

Welcome to PTO! Under the prison profiles subforum, there are a couple lengthy posts about Hillcrest. I have visited there before and have had a couple family members end up there. It is not a great place for them, but visiting wasn't too bad when I was there. They did use to allow you to bring them things, like shoes, when you went to visit. You could also buy hot food from the canteen, so be sure to bring money in. Processing took forever, so arrive early. Take care.

That's so good to know, I hope it's still ok to bring money. I'm sure he is ready for some real food/snacks. I did talk to his counselor today. She said I would feel much better once I have a visit with him. Thank you so much for the info. god bless