The Juvenile Reentry Unit (JRU) is composed of highly-trained and experienced Specialized Probation Officers who serve as a vital link between state-operated YRTC facilities. The JRU plays a key role in identifying areas of development that reduce the risk of recidivism and support successful community reintegration. Throughout a youth’s commitment, JRU officers prioritize building strong, supportive relationships that help address the root causes of delinquent behavior and target high-risk domains. With a highly individualized approach, these juvenile probation officers lead the development of the Individualized Reentry Plan (IRP) in close coordination with the youth's home probation officer and the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center (YRTC). This collaboration ensures that community-based interventions are tailored, identified, and ready for implementation upon the youth’s return to the community.

Key Responsibilities of the Juvenile Reentry Unit:

• Coordinate the development of the Individualized Reentry Plan (IRP) in partnership with the home probation officer and YRTC staff.
• Facilitate face-to-face engagement and skill-building activities with youth while committed to the YRTC.
• Act as a liaison between home probation districts and YRTC, ensuring direct and consistent communication with YRTC case managers.
• Support and assist in monthly Family Team Meetings, helping to align family, facility, and community supports.
• Attend court hearings to provide reentry-related updates, insights, and planning information.
• Collaborate closely with the home probation officer to ensure continuity of care and access to appropriate community-based interventions upon reentry.

Reentry

Reentry supervision is an individualized, structured, evidence-based process that supports youth and families during the transition from the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers (YRTCs) back to the community. This process relies heavily on intense collaboration with youth, families, and professional supports - making this partnership a vital component for each youth’s successful transition and long-term success. During the reentry process, there is a strong emphasis on early identification and implementation of community-based treatments, participation in community reintegration activities, and reestablishing both formal and informal support networks. Reentry is designed to address the high risk and critical phase through structured planning and support, ultimately promoting healthy reintegration and ensuring the safety and well-being of both the youth and the community.

Key Features of Reentry Include: 

• Serve as liaisons between Probation and the Department of Health and Human Services- Office of Juvenile Services (DHHS-OJS)
  • Reentry supervision serves as a vital link between Probation and the DHHS-OJS, ensuring seamless communication, coordinated case planning, and integrated service delivery. This collaboration helps address the complex needs of youth and their families through a unified approach.
• Quality engagement in facilities
  • Specialized Probation Officers provide consistent, in-person engagement with youth committed to build trust, assess needs, and begin transition planning early. In partnership with the youth’s home probation officer, these officers ensure alignment in goals, share critical information, and assist in creating a seamless handoff back to the community. These meaningful interactions lay the foundation for a smooth and supportive reentry process.
• Balanced approach between services and supervision
  • Reentry emphasizes a thoughtful balance of supportive services, such as education, counseling, and pro-social activities, with appropriate supervision. This approach aligns with the AC4E core by focusing on skill building to equip youth with tools for success, applying incentives and supporting sanctions to reinforce positive behavior and accountability, utilizing individualized case planning, and fostering engagement to build meaningful connections with youth and families. Together, these practices promote both personal growth and public safety through the consistent application.
• Reentry Specialized Probation Officers are highly qualified, trained, and experienced
  • Specialized Probation Officers are specialized juvenile probation officers with extensive training and relevant experience in working with justice-involved youth. Their expertise ensures effective support and guidance throughout the reentry process.
• Reentry works within a highly developed case management framework
  • Reentry supervision operates within a well-developed case management system that ensures coordinated, individualized planning. This framework helps monitor progress, align services with youth needs, and adjust strategies to support long-term success.
• Emphasizes community supports and multi-agency collaboration
  • Reentry supervision prioritizes strong community support and active collaboration with multiple agencies ensure youth receive comprehensive, coordinated care and opportunities for success.

For additional information about YRTC Reentry:
Luke Estes
Juvenile Reentry Specialist
521 South 14th Street, Suite 500
Lincoln, NE 68508
Mobile: 308-224-5506
luke.estes@nejudicial.gov

For additional information about other out-of-home placement:
Julie A. Smith
Out-of-Home Program Specialist
521 South 14th Street, Suite 500
Lincoln, NE 68508
Mobile: (402) 314-8545
julie.a.smith@nejudicial.gov