Pueblo detention facility changes food policies following outcry

Colorado Corrections Officials Change Policies on Food Purchases at Youthful Offender System

Colorado corrections officials have made changes to the food purchasing policies at the Youthful Offender System detention center in Pueblo following concerns raised by families and the hospitalization of a resident.

A Department of Corrections spokesperson confirmed that all young people at the detention center will now be able to purchase food from the canteen, regardless of privilege levels based on behavior.

The changes were implemented after reports that a 22-year-old resident was hospitalized due to malnutrition, resulting in renal failure. Families also reported extreme weight loss among other residents due to insufficient food portions.

State lawmakers have taken notice of the conditions at the facility, with Sen. Nick Hinrichsen calling the findings “appalling” and pledging to investigate the decision-making process behind the reduced caloric intake. Rep. Javier Mabrey also raised questions about caloric guidelines and the health of inmates at the facility.

In response to inquiries, corrections officials cited concerns about the average body mass index of residents, leading to a reduction in caloric intake. However, lawmakers were not satisfied with this explanation and plan to further investigate the matter.

Emmanuel Porter-Taylor, the resident who was hospitalized, has since been discharged and is now at the Denver Reception and Diagnostic Center. His family reported that he lost 42 pounds over six weeks due to malnutrition, stress, and high blood pressure.

Legislators are planning to tour the facility to assess the situation firsthand and ensure that adequate nutrition is provided to all residents.