Judge Denies Request to Modify Consent Decree

U.S. District Court Judge James Peterson has rejected requests from Wisconsin Republican lawmakers to modify the consent decree governing the Lincoln Hills youth prison, insisting that any changes should be pursued through formal legal channels. Governor Tony Evers supports the existing decree, stating it has improved conditions at the facility since its implementation in 2018. The debate intensified after a tragic incident in June where an inmate killed a youth counselor, prompting concerns about staff safety. Senator Van Wanggaard criticized the current conditions, arguing that the decree is ineffective and that staff assaults have increased. Peterson noted that the original expectation was to close Lincoln Hills, which has not occurred, and emphasized the need for evidence-based arguments if modifications are to be considered. He highlighted the significant costs associated with the facility, including damages and settlements for constitutional violations.