LARNED – As youth incarceration levels in Kansas continue to decrease, the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) announced intentions to close the Larned Juvenile Correctional Facility (LJCF) in Larned, according to a media release.

The closure plan is set to occur over a twelve month period where both staffing and youth population will gradually decline.

“There are no plans to move any youth currently at the LJCF,” stated Secretary of Corrections Joe Norwood. “Over the next twelve months, I will ensure that every LJCF employee is afforded an opportunity to continue their employment with the state of Kansas. While working to provide a smooth transition for our staff and incarcerated youth, public safety is and will remain our highest priority. “

In fiscal year 2010, the monthly average population of incarcerated juveniles was 331. The current monthly average for fiscal year 2016 is 233, a drop of approximately 30 percent.