On this episode of Resilience2Redemption, host Madeline-Michelle: Carthen leads an urgent conversation on the recent unrest connected to the St. Louis County Justice Center, the advocacy efforts of EXPO StL, and growing concerns over proposed legislation SB 888 and HB 2498.

Executive Director Latrell Stanton explains that the most recent uprising followed severe staffing shortages during a January snowstorm, resulting in extended lock-downs and reported limited access to food, water, medication, and communication. He emphasizes that pretrial detainees are legally presumed innocent, yet detention conditions often resemble punishment. Chronic understaffing, sanitation concerns, delayed medical care, and lack of transparency contribute to systemic instability. According to Stanton, repeated unrest signals structural failure rather than isolated incidents.

The discussion shifts to policy concerns. Stanton outlines how SB 888 and HB 2498 could expand prosecutorial authority in juvenile cases, potentially increasing certification of youth into adult systems and expanding record accessibility. Advocates fear these changes would move the system further from rehabilitation and disproportionately impact Black and Brown youth, creating long-term barriers in employment, housing, and education.

Keisha, an impacted mother, shares the emotional toll of having her son certified as an adult while still a minor. She describes the constant worry of knowing her child is housed within an adult system and the broader strain placed on families navigating the judicial process. She stresses the importance of parental involvement, asking questions, and remaining engaged despite the complexity of the system.

Throughout the conversation, Madeline-Michelle highlights the intersection of detention conditions, legislative reform, and family impact, underscoring that transparency and community engagement are critical to meaningful change.

This episode calls listeners to remain informed, stay engaged, and participate constructively in civic processes that affect youth, families, and justice reform in Missouri.