6 Employees to be Fired at Detention Center Where Teen Died

Six employees of a South Florida juvenile detention center where a teenager died will be fired.

 

The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice announced Tuesday that the Palm Beach Juvenile Detention Center's superintendent and assistant superintendent were fired. Four detnetion center officers also will be fired.

 

Officials said a review of the facility's operations and management revealed that the six violated policies and procedures.

 

Police and prosecutors are still investigating the death of 18-year-old Eric Perez in July. The teen died hours after seeking help for a severe headache and vomiting. An autopsy is pending.

 

DJJ Secretary Wansley Walters said the agency could not wait for the outcome of the criminal investigation to discipline the employees because "necessary changes" at the center can't begin until "appropriate personnel changes" are made.