Juvenile Center Looks To Separate From State

THIBODAUX, La. (AP) — As the Lafourche Parish Juvenile Justice Facility approaches its 30th anniversary, it's faced with a daunting challenge.

Receiving less money from the state, the center, located in Thibodaux, is considering localizing its services and asking taxpayers for more money.

The center provides emergency shelter, secure detention and a group home for children who are homeless, abused or have psychological disorders.

As a criminal detention center and treatment facility, director Bob Licalzi tells The Courier the juvenile center has lost half its state revenue because it doesn't fit any of the models that Magellan — the private insurance company the state has partnered with — has envisioned.