Santa Barbara County: Grand Jury Visits Los Prietos

Source: SBC Grand Jury

An emotionally charged performance by the Drama Kings was the highlight of the 2011-12 Santa Barbara County Grand Jury visit to Los Prietos Boys Camp and Academy. The visitation was part of the Jury's charge to investigate operations and conditions in detention facilities in the County.

Members of the Drama Kings, all wards of the court between the ages of 13 and 18 sent to the detention facility, performed a personalized rap version of how each wound up at Los Prietos. The stories were entertaining as well as thought-provoking to jurors who had an opportunity to visit with members of the troupe following the performance.

This juvenile facility, operated by the Santa Barbara County Probation Department, stresses education and vocational training for juvenile offenders. "The Jury found a staff committed to the future success of its wards," said Ted Sten, Grand Jury Foreman.

"The Jury toured the Camp and commended the Probation Department officials who manage and operate this juvenile detention facility," Sten said.

The Santa Barbara County Grand Jury is a basic part of the government within the judicial branch. The Grand Jury acts independently, but is under the general control of the Superior Court Presiding Judge to assure that it acts in accordance with the Penal Code of the State of California.