How to Report a Problem or Complaint About Your Child’s Treatment at a DJJ Facility

For concerns about safety, security, or services at a DJJ facility, contact the Central Communications Center (CCC) right away. Speed matters - the sooner you report, the easier it is for staff to respond and investigate while details are fresh. Be as specific as possible when you call. Thorough information leads to a more complete review.

• ✓ Your child’s name (and any ID number you have)
• ✓ The DJJ facility/program name and, if you know it, the unit or housing area
• ✓ What happened, in clear, factual language (what you saw/heard, what your child reported, and what you’re concerned about)
• ✓ The date and time (or best estimate) and whether the issue is ongoing
• ✓ Names or descriptions of staff involved (if known)
• ✓ Names of possible witnesses (youth or staff) if you have them
• ✓ Any supporting documentation you can safely provide (notes, relevant messages, or other records)
• ✓ Your name and contact information for follow-up (helpful, though not required)
• ✓ The best way and time to reach you, if someone needs clarification

If you need another way to submit a complaint, you can send it to the Office of the Inspector General. Complaints may be faxed to (850) 414-7182 or mailed to: Department of Juvenile Justice, Office of Inspector General, 2737 Centerview Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32399-3100.

Certain situations qualify as "reportable incidents" under Florida Administrative Code Rule 63F-11. DJJ requires these to be called into the CCC within 2 hours - either from when the incident occurs or when staff first learn about it. This strict timeline is another reason to report concerns the moment you hear about them, especially if safety or humane treatment is involved.

1. Treat urgent safety or treatment concerns as time-sensitive - If what you’re hearing or observing sounds like it could be a reportable incident, don’t wait.
2. Report it to the CCC immediately - Rule 63F-11 reportable incidents are required to be called into the CCC within 2 hours of the incident or within 2 hours of staff learning of it.
3. Share the clearest details you have - Names, dates/times, where it happened, and what occurred help the report be reviewed accurately.
4. Give a way to reach you (if you can) - Your contact information isn’t required, but it can help staff follow up with questions or updates.

What to Include When Reporting

• ✓ Your child’s full name (and any DJJ or facility ID number, if available)
• ✓ The DJJ facility/program name and the specific area/unit (if you know it)
• ✓ The date and time of the incident or concern (or a best estimate)
• ✓ A step-by-step description of what happened, using concrete details (who, what, when, where)
• ✓ Any injuries, medical needs, or immediate safety risks you’re aware of
• ✓ Staff names, titles, or physical descriptions (if you don’t know names)
• ✓ Names of witnesses or other people who may have relevant information
• ✓ Any documentation you can safely provide (written notes, timelines, or other records)
• ✓ What outcome you’re asking for (for example: a welfare check, review of an incident, or follow-up contact)
• ✓ Your name and preferred contact information for follow-up (helpful even though it’s not required)