SNOQUALMIE, Wash. — Major security changes are coming to a youth detention center in Snoqualmie after five teens escaped.
The teens assaulted staff at knifepoint and stole a car from the Echo Glen Children’s Center eight days ago.
Four of the five teens were caught and could face adult charges.
Some of the changes include:
Now, the state plans to perform what it calls a “security deep dive” to make the center more secure.
- Electric carts have replaced cars used by security and health center staff on campus.
- Uniforms are required for youth in maximum security.
- A single point of entry has been established.
- Surveillance video system replacement is underway.
- The King County Sheriff’s Office will increase deputies’ presence near the campus.
A new video-activated security gate will be installed at Echo Glen. This comes after workers had tried to get its current broken gate fixed for the last 10 months.