Juvenile Temporary Detention Center – Chicago, IL

Juvenile Temporary Detention Center (JTDC)

The Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center (JTDC), officially named the Leonard M. Giannoulias JTDC, is the primary detention facility for minors in Cook County. Located on the Near West Side of Chicago, it serves as a temporary secure custody facility for youths between the ages of 10 and 18 who are awaiting adjudication by the Juvenile Court or transfer to other jurisdictions. The center focuses on providing a safe, secure, and humane environment while ensuring residents appear for their court proceedings.

Programs and Services

• Education: Residents attend the Nancy B. Jefferson Alternative School, a Chicago Public School located within the facility, ensuring their education continues during detention.
• Healthcare: The facility provides comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health services to all residents upon admission and throughout their stay.
• Rehabilitation: Various programs are offered to support behavioral health, including cognitive behavioral therapy and mentoring.

Visitation and Release

Visitation at the JTDC is strictly controlled and must be scheduled in advance. Only parents or legal guardians are typically permitted to visit. Visitors must present valid government-issued identification. For release, a parent or legal guardian must be present with ID at the Lower Level Concourse release area. The facility operates 24/7 for intake and custody purposes.