PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — A February riot at the Lorrie Yeager Jr. Juvenile Center in Parkersburg has resulted in a host of charges against the juveniles allegedly involved.
The West Virginia State Police and Wood County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announced Wednesday charges had been filed against six juveniles for the destruction that happened inside the center’s dayroom.
Investigators said the Feb. 18 riot began when two boys began physically assaulting correctional officers, staff and other juveniles during a recreational period. The two convinced two other boys to help them. They were allegedly using tables and chairs and other property in the attack. A short time later two girls joined the riot. The group was eventually locked in the room where they made threats and attempted to escape.
Correctional officers changed into riot gear and were able to get the situation under control. The damages caused by the riot totaled approximately $40,000. The damage included broken windows, broken sprinkler heads, a large flat-screen television, an adjoining laundry room and three offices. Weapons were made from scissors and metal rods from a foosball table.
The six have been charged with destruction of property by rioters and felony destruction of property. The four boys face additional charges of attempted escape and possession of a weapon.