On July 3, 2025, Maryland’s Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) implemented a new juvenile detention policy requiring mandatory detention for teens wearing ankle monitors who are arrested for serious crimes, such as gun charges. The directive, announced by Acting Secretary Betsy Fox Tolentino, responds to law enforcement’s calls for stricter measures to address repeat juvenile offenders. This policy shift, effective immediately, marks a significant change from previous practices where detention was optional, even at police request.
Tolentino, appointed by Governor Wes Moore in June 2025, introduced the juvenile detention policy after consultations with public safety officials, including Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley and Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott Shellenberger. The decision follows recent incidents involving teens on electronic monitoring committing serious crimes, such as carjacking, robbery, and assault. “These changes show a willingness to have hard conversations and make quick decisions when they can help us rebuild trust and community safety,” Tolentino said in a statement.
Under the new juvenile detention policy, teens arrested while on ankle monitors must be detained until their next court appearance, which could involve an overnight or weekend stay in a state facility, depending on the arrest’s timing. A community detention officer or liaison is required to attend the court hearing to provide updates on the teen’s compliance with electronic monitoring, highlighting both strengths and areas of concern. This ensures courts have comprehensive information to make informed decisions about the youth’s case.
The juvenile detention policy targets repeat offenders, a growing concern in Maryland. For example, Baltimore police recently arrested a 14-year-old boy on home detention for car theft, carjacking, and armed robbery while wearing an ankle monitor. Such cases have fueled demands for reform. “We need to know that the days of catch and release are behind us,” said Sen. J.B. Jennings, R-District 7, who praised the policy as a “new beginning” after visiting the Charles H. Hickey Jr. School detention facility in Parkville.
DJS is also enhancing staff training to strengthen oversight of teens on electronic monitoring. The agency plans to implement a modern data system to improve real-time analysis, addressing a January 2025 audit that criticized DJS for lacking metrics to measure recidivism or case outcomes due to an outdated case management system. A May 2025 audit further highlighted issues with facility management and oversight, underscoring the need for reform.
Baltimore Police Commissioner Worley commended the juvenile detention policy, stating, “I appreciate DJS for taking swift action in response to the concerns raised by me and members of my team.” Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates called the policy a “positive step forward” and expressed optimism about collaborating with Tolentino to support youth rehabilitation. However, Baltimore County State’s Attorney Shellenberger emphasized the need for faster responses when teens violate curfews or restricted areas, indicating that more improvements are necessary.
The juvenile detention policy follows the departure of former DJS Secretary Vincent Schiraldi in June 2025. Governor Moore, seeking a “philosophy of urgency,” appointed Tolentino, a seasoned youth justice professional, to lead the agency. Tolentino’s immediate engagement with law enforcement and focus on policy reform reflect a proactive approach to addressing systemic gaps. The new measures aim to balance public safety with support for justice-involved youth, ensuring accountability while providing resources to prevent recidivism.
