Knoxville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) — The Knox County Commission has approved a new advisory board to help oversee operations at the East Tennessee Regional Juvenile Services Center.
During a meeting Monday evening, commissioners appointed seven members to the board, which will provide guidance for the Richard L. Bean Juvenile Detention Center. The facility has been under increased scrutiny following the resignation of its longtime director, Richard L. Bean, last year.
The newly appointed board includes Ashley Ellis, Adam Moncier, Katherine Ogle, Teresa Parker, Michael Smith, April Snell and Shane Jackson. Officials say the group brings a range of experience in administration, healthcare and children’s services.
Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs, Juvenile Court Judge Tim Irwin and the chair of the Knox County Commission were all involved in selecting members of the board.
The detention center became the focus of controversy after Mayor Jacobs accused Bean of retaliating against two employees who raised concerns about conditions at the facility to state officials. A subsequent review identified more than 90 issues related to the operation of the center.
Since then, Knox County has taken over management of the facility and explored options for restructuring oversight, including a brief consideration of placing it under the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
County leaders say the new advisory board is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen accountability, improve operations, and ensure the safety and well-being of juveniles housed at the center.
