Judicial Youth Institution for Young People from Rijswijk
A judicial youth institution (JJI) is a secure facility for young people aged 12 to 23 from areas such as Rijswijk who have been sentenced by the District Court of Rijswijk to a custodial sentence or are held in pre-trial detention. These institutions administer sentences, maintain order, and promote reintegration through education, therapy, and sports activities. They fall under the Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI) and play a crucial role in juvenile criminal justice for residents of Rijswijk.
What exactly is a judicial youth institution?
In a JJI, young people from Rijswijk and surrounding areas who have committed offenses—such as shoplifting in the city center, violent incidents, or drug possession—are held. In addition to enforcing sentences, the focus is on personal development and safe reintegration into society, including Rijswijk. Unlike open youth care facilities, JJIs are heavily secured with fencing, surveillance, and trained staff.
The Netherlands has nine JJIs, including locations such as Blokhuispoort in Leeuwarden or the Toekomstfabriek in Veenhuizen. Young people from Rijswijk are placed in living groups of 8 to 12, with private rooms equipped with a bed, desk, and bathroom. The daily regime is strict: education, work, sports, and therapy form the core.
Legal framework for JJI placement from Rijswijk
The JJI is embedded in juvenile criminal law, particularly Title IIa of the Criminal Code (arts. 77a-77zz Sr) and the Youth Act (art. 2.1 et seq.). Placement rules follow the Placement Scheme for Youth Institutions and the Placement Conditions for Youth Institutions (PvJI). The Penitentiary Principles Act (Pbw) governs order (art. 24 Pbw), with youth protections under the Youth Custody Act.
The juvenile judge at the District Court of Rijswijk decides on placement through a pro forma or final judgment. For PIJ (art. 77c Sr), this can last up to 7 years, with periodic reviews. In Rijswijk, you can get free advice on your case from Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
When does a young person from Rijswijk end up in a JJI?
Placement occurs in cases of:
- Youth detention (JD): Short sentence up to 7 days per offense (art. 77g Sv).
- PIJ: Treatment for serious offenses (art. 77c Sr).
- ISD: For persistent offenders (art. 77q Sr).
- Pre-trial detention: During police investigation (art. 77ee Sv).
The public prosecutor submits the request to the District Court of Rijswijk; the judge decides. For less serious cases, HALT or youth detention may suffice, but repetition or risk leads to a JJI.
Daily life in a JJI for young people from Rijswijk
A standard day proceeds as follows:
- 07:00 - Morning routine and breakfast.
- 08:30 - Education or work until 15:00.
- 15:00 - Sports, therapy, or recreation.
- 17:00 - Dinner.
- 20:00 - Evening program or isolation if necessary.
- 21:30 - Lights out.
Tailored education (VMBO to VWO levels), vocational training, and therapy for aggression or addiction are provided. Family visits are weekly; leave becomes available later, with aftercare via the Municipality of Rijswijk.
Example 1: Jamal from Rijswijk
16-year-old Jamal from Rijswijk commits burglaries in local shops. The District Court of Rijswijk imposes 2 years PIJ. He attends classes, therapy for impulsivity, and basketball. After a year, he gets supervised leave and resumes life in Rijswijk.
Example 2: Pre-trial detention
A 15-year-old from Rijswijk is suspected of a robbery. She spends 3 weeks in a JJI on pre-trial detention, with daily updates to the examining magistrate.
Rights and obligations in a JJI
Rights:
- Education and medical care (art. 3 PvJI).
- Visits and calls with family.
- Filing complaints with the director or juvenile judge.
- Equal treatment and freedom of religion.
Obligations:
- Follow rules; no drugs or violence.
- Participate in therapy.
- Cooperate with mentors.
Violations lead to measures such as room isolation (max. 14 days, art. 28 Placement Scheme).
| Measure | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Youth detention | 1-7 days | Warning |
| PIJ | 1-7 years | Treatment |
| ISD | 2 years | Repeat offenders |
Frequently asked questions for Rijswijk
Can family visit in a JJI?
Yes, weekly for 1-2 hours under supervision. ID and checks required. Contact Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for details.
Objection to placement?
Yes, within 7 days to the juvenile judge (art. 77gg Sv). Get assistance from a lawyer via Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
How long does the stay last?
From days (JD) to years (PIJ), with reviews every 6 months. Good behavior helps for earlier release.
Is education mandatory?
Yes, at your level, with recognized diplomas for return to schools in Rijswijk.
Tips for parents and young people from Rijswijk
- For parents: Stay involved, visit often, and talk to the mentor. Seek help from Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or the Municipality of Rijswijk for aftercare.
- For young people: Cooperate with your program, follow rules, and make the most of education for a better future in Rijswijk.