Youth Shelter
Harrison County operates a twenty-four hour emergency shelter for children
from ages one day to eighteen years who are abused or neglected, and for
children who have run away from home. The facility was the first of it's
kind in the state. Basic physical, emotional and education needs are met
for the children while they are at the shelter. They are transported by
staff to regular schools and particiapte in recreation programs during the
summer. Representatives of the Department of Human Services and various
law enforcement agencies frequently request admittance when protective custody
is needed. Prior to admittance, approval is needed from an authorized Court
representative.Youth Court The Youth Court is a division of the Harrison
County Court System.
They handle referrals regarding the following matters:
Delinquency - minors aged 10 and up to 18 for non-traffic misdemeanors
and aged 10 through 17 for non-capital felonies
Neglect and/or Abuse - minors from birth up to age 18
Child In Need Of Supervision (CHINS) - minors aged 7 up to 18
In delinquency, neglect, abuse and children in need of supervisor cases,
the parties incur no filing fees. Petitions are filed upon the authorization
of a Youth Court Judge. Copies of orders regarding a case are made available
at no cost to the parents of the child involved, to the attorney for the
parents and/or child involved, to the Department of Human Services representative
or other necessary parties.
Youth Court Judges And Staff
Honorable Michael H. Ward - Full-time Youth Court Judge
Honorable Robin Alfred Midcalf - Handles Youth Court matters numerous
days each month as her County Court schedule allows.
Honorable Gaston Hewes, Jr. - Handles any Youth Court cases which
Judge Ward and Judge Midcalf are unable to hear.
