Freeholder Liaison: Christopher D. Rafano
Department Head: James White

    The Middlesex County Department of Youth Services, under the auspices of the Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, is a diverse agency that services juveniles correctionally and provides special rehabilitative services on a residential basis to selected youths. The Department includes the Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center, the Middlesex County Youth Shelter and the Middlefields Program. These three facilities are designed to provide residential child care services through a process consistent with the purpose of each facility, its licensing requirements and in a manner that promotes positive personal growth and the development of each child’s potential.

The Middlesex County Youth Detention Center is the secure facility for juvenile offenders that are remanded by the Family Court in order to insure their appearance in Court or to protect the safety of the community.

The Middlesex County Shelter is a non-secure facility used for juveniles remanded by the Family Court or referred by the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services. Its residents include minor delinquent offenders, juveniles placed as a result of dysfunctional home environments, juveniles placed due to a family crisis, and juveniles placed due to victimization from abuse or neglect.

The Middlefields Group Home is a treatment-oriented program for male juveniles with a variety of family related problems and behavioral problems. These boys are placed by the Family Court, while others are referred by the New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services.