InForney sat down with Kaufman County District Attorney Erleigh Wiley to discuss the proposed $40 million Juvenile Detention Center and why she believes Proposition A is a critical investment in public safety, rehabilitation, and the future of the county.
Why do you believe now is the right time for Kaufman County to invest in a juvenile detention center?
Three reasons — safety, cost, and growth. Juvenile crime is increasing, and our current system can’t keep up. Right now, we’re either transporting dangerous juveniles across the state or leaving them in the community on ankle monitors. We’re out of room. It’s expensive now, but waiting will only make it worse. Kaufman County’s population is projected to grow, and this issue will only grow with it.
From a prosecutor’s perspective, how does the lack of a local juvenile facility impact accountability and justice for young offenders?
Juveniles know the system. They know nothing will happen unless they commit a serious crime because we don’t have “beds” in Kaufman County. Even if they’re on probation, there’s no point in drug testing or enforcing terms — we have nowhere to put them. That sends the wrong message. We need community support to change that and bring real accountability.
How would a facility like this improve outcomes for both victims and juvenile offenders?
This isn’t just about detention. It’s about providing rehabilitation through juvenile probation, alternative schooling for expelled students, and counseling. If we can keep juveniles close to home, we have a better chance to intervene early and stop the cycle. That benefits victims too—because fewer crimes mean fewer victims.
Can you speak to how the juvenile justice system differs from the adult system, and why specialized juvenile facilities are necessary?
Some citizens have asked why we can’t just use the old jail or expand the current one. But the law doesn’t allow it. Juvenile facilities have stricter requirements for safety, education, and care. I used to think repurposing the jail was a good idea—until I dug into the state laws. It’s simply not an option.
How does the current process of transporting juveniles to other counties affect families and court proceedings?
Safety is a big concern. We’ve had to send kids as far away as San Angelo. That’s two deputies off patrol every time. Court hearings are held over Zoom, which reduces impact and limits understanding. And it’s hard for parents to stay involved when the child is hours away. These are still minors—we’re trying to rehabilitate them, not isolate them.
What safeguards are in place to ensure the facility stays focused on rehabilitation, not punishment?
A juvenile detention center is temporary. It’s not about punishment. It’s a holding space while we work through the courts or probation violations. The focus is on the least restrictive path that still keeps the public safe. We want to expand services, especially for drug addiction and mental health, which are growing concerns among our youth.
In your experience, how do community-based services and proximity to family influence a young person’s ability to change?
Location matters. Kids need to be close to the community they’ll return to. That’s where their support systems and services are. If we want them to succeed, we have to start the process here—at home.
What would you say to voters concerned about the $40 million bond or tax impact?
I respect that concern. I’m a taxpayer too. $25 a year is real money. But here’s the reality: the need won’t go away. If we wait, construction costs will be higher, and we’ll still have the same problem. Delaying will cost us more in the long run. This is about making a responsible investment now.
How will having this facility in Kaufman County strengthen public safety and the judicial system?
It improves everything—efficiency, safety, and outcomes. The facility will be near our justice center, so juveniles won’t have to be transported long distances. Probation officers, judges, attorneys—they’ll all be in one place. It reduces risk, saves time, and gives us more control over the process.
Any final message to the voters?
Kaufman County is an incredible place full of compassionate, civic-minded people. I know this isn’t an easy ask—but we can’t keep kicking the can down the road. If we wait, it’ll cost more, and our community will keep paying the price in other ways. This bond isn’t just about detention—it’s about accountability, rehabilitation, and keeping our county safe as it grows.