GOVERNOR LINGLE TAKES CORRECTIVE ACTION AT HAWAI`I YOUTH CORRECTIONAL FACILITY

For Immediate Release August 26, 2003

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle today ordered the transfer of the administrator and a corrections specialist from their positions at the Hawai`i Youth Correctional Facility (HYCF), pending the outcome of an investigation into a report by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

The Governor’s action is in response to a 34-page independent report by the ACLU issued on August 14th, which cites numerous serious allegations.  The report also recommends 47 “minimum remedial measures” to rectify various unacceptable conditions and practices at the HYCF.

Jim Propotnick, who currently serves as deputy director of law enforcement at the Department of Public Safety, will serve as the new acting administrator of HYCF.

“The report’s conclusions are too serious to leave the current management in place,” Governor Lingle said.  “Our responsibility is to the children,” she added.  “This gives us time to review the report’s findings and ensure the safety of the young people.”

“I support the ACLU’s investigation and thank our Attorney General’s Office and the Department of Public Safety for their unconditional support on behalf of the wards at the youth correctional facility,” Governor Lingle said.

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For more information, contact:
Lenny Klompus 
Senior Advisor – Communications 
Phone: 586-7705

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: 586-0043