The Münnichplatz correctional facility was opened in January 2025 during ongoing construction work. Schwarz described this as "poor project management": "It was not acceptable to house young inmates on a construction site with insufficient staff." According to the Ombudsman, the current conditions contradict the standards of a modern juvenile correctional facility.

Limited Visits and Early Lock-Up Times

Since there is still no visitor area in the prison, young people can only see relatives once a week. Additionally, cells are locked in the afternoon due to staff shortages. Schwarz spoke of a "major risk factor" due to the lack of specialized staff and prison officers.

During the examination, the Ombudsman confirmed several incidents, including brawls between inmates and so-called "fence parties," where young people made contact with prisoners from outside. In two cases, fences were climbed over. Subsequently, structural measures such as an opaque hedge and staggered fences were implemented. However, Schwarz emphasized: "These measures should have been necessary before the facility was put into operation."

Staff Shortage Remains a Problem

According to the Ombudsman, 16 young people are currently incarcerated, supervised by around 30 executive officers. For full operation in November, 60 officers are planned. Whether the open positions can be filled in time is questionable according to Schwarz. She doubts that construction will be completed by autumn and that smooth full operation will be ensured.

The new youth prison is designed for 72 inmates and is intended to relieve the eastern region. However, Schwarz warns that capacities could quickly be exhausted. Currently, there are 49 young inmates in the youth department of JA Wien-Josefstadt, who are to be relocated soon. "The Münnichplatz will therefore not be able to relieve the entire eastern region as planned," said the Ombudswoman.

(APA/Red)

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