TRI-CITIES, Wash. (AP) - The state’s only military-style camp for incarcerated teens has closed its doors after nearly two decades.
The Tri-City Herald reports (https://bit.ly/1F01qvl ) Camp Outlook had its graduation Wednesday, which also marked the end for the Connell boot camp. Teary-eyed staff described the day as bittersweet.
The camp was recognized for its ability to reform youth through a treatment model that included military structure, behavioral therapy and education.
One of the creators of the program, David Griffith, says the success of the boot camp has been defined by the many youths who have transformed their lives.
20-year-old Michael Diaz, who was incarcerated at 17, says if he didn’t go through the camp, he would most likely still be in jail.
The closure of the state-funded program was due to budget cuts.
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