A former assistant director at the Marietta Youth Detention Center, Vanderia Britton, has been taken into custody facing charges of first-degree cruelty to children. Britton is accused of assaulting a 14-year-old girl while she was handcuffed on April 13. The arrest warrant indicates that the girl sustained injuries requiring four stitches on her face after Britton allegedly struck her with a portable radio, punched her multiple times, and choked her until she collapsed, according to FOX 5 Atlanta.
Britton, who resigned from his position during the course of the investigation, is now in custody at the Cobb County Jail without the possibility of bond. A Department of Juvenile Justice spokesperson conveyed to FOX 5 Atlanta, "This behavior represents a clear violation of his oath of office. As a result, he is facing one count of Cruelty to Children in the 1st Degree." The department made clear their commitment to maintaining zero-tolerance for such conduct and ensuring the security and safety of their facilities., as per FOX 5 Atlanta's report.
Further details were reported by WSB Radio, stating that witnesses saw Britton place his hands around the teen's throat. At this time, no additional charges have been filed, although the motive behind the assault has not been disclosed. The Cobb County Sheriff's Office confirmed that an investigation into the alleged incident is ongoing.
The case against Britton brings forth serious concerns on the treatment of youth inmates within the juvenile justice system, raising questions about the oversight and accountability held by officials tasked with their care. "The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) maintains a zero-tolerance policy for actions like those exhibited by Britton, and we are committed to operating safe and secure facilities," the spokesperson further told FOX 5 Atlanta. Detailed developments of the case are awaited as the investigation proceeds.
