Behind The Lens episode 218: ‘They need stability … this does not bode well for that’

This week on Behind The Lens, a $9.5 million private security contract for Louisiana youth prisons raises eyebrows.

This summer, the Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice quietly entered into a year-long contract with Coleman Consulting Group, LLC, a private company, to provide security at two Louisiana youth prisons. Its security guards don’t need expertise in youth. 

The agency pays $75 per hour to staffing company for guards. Critics say that contractor seems to be “enriching themselves on the backs of Louisiana’s teenagers and taxpayers.”

Our guest this week is Lens reporter Nick Chrastil. 

Theme music by Podington Bear. Additional music Sunset and Thimble of Sun by Podington Bear soundofpicture.com. 

You can also listen to Behind The Lens on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other services.

Carolyne Heldman

Carolyne Heldman has been in media for 35 years, most recently as Executive Director at an NPR member station in Colorado where she was responsible for new multi-platform content initiatives, strategic planning, research, branding, and non-traditional revenue generation. During her tenure she also created and launched four weekly news, public affairs and cultural affairs programs and monthly live Town Hall broadcasts. Heldman moved to New Orleans last summer with her husband and canine companion and they live happily in The Marigny.