OJJ policy states that children can be sent to Angola from other facilities for any number of reasons, including committing certain acts of violence against a staff member or possessing marijuana. Even kids determined to have a serious mental illness or “significant developmental disabilities” can be transferred to the unit.

Charles C. was hospitalized at 10 years old and diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and ADHD, according to a previous statement submitted to the court. He was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after being shot at age 13 and has been hospitalized several times for mental health crises.

In addition to the unbearable heat, Charles reported that a staff member had thrown him against the wall, which made him bleed. He said he’d been denied access to educational programs and is often hungry because he doesn’t have enough food.

This is so inhumane. It’s the kind of stuff you’d expect of third world dictatorships. Fix your shit America, seriously.