Cincinnati, Ohio – A former prison superintendent is pointing fingers at the Ohio Department of Youth Services for releasing a teenager on parole who later allegedly committed a double homicide before taking his own life in Cincinnati. The tragedies, according to former superintendent Jim Darnell, could have been prevented if the department had chosen to keep the teenager, Jorenzo Phillips, incarcerated for a longer period.
Phillips, 19, was released on parole in November 2022 and was under supervision until November 2023. Just days after his release, Phillips was suspected of shooting and killing Amiri Reid, a Black transgender woman, and Kejuan Richardson, a Black gender non-conforming gay man, in Toledo. Authorities initiated a statewide manhunt for Phillips, which ended when he died by suicide in Cincinnati.
In light of these events, Toledo police are actively investigating the murders. Darnell expressed his concerns in a letter distributed to legislators, media outlets, and others, noting the loss of three young lives and the impact of such a tragedy. Phillips had a history of criminal activities, landing in youth prison due to a robbery case in 2018.
The Department of Youth Services faced criticism for not conducting a “special review” into Phillips’ gang activity, which could have led to a longer incarceration period. Phillips’ troubles continued after leaving the department, as he faced weapons charges in Lucas County, pleading guilty in October and receiving a three-year probation sentence.
The Indian River youth prison, where Darnell served as superintendent, has been at the center of issues within the Ohio youth prison system. Darnell, who was dismissed in February 2023, faced criticism for allegedly failing to properly supervise staff. The department, however, declined to comment on Darnell’s remarks as they had not received his letter.
Following an investigation by multiple news outlets into youth prisons and detention centers, Ohio Governor DeWine appointed a panel of experts to study the issues and provide recommendations for improvement. The investigation shed light on violent clashes, staff shortages, and inhumane conditions within the state’s youth prison system, a situation that has raised concerns about the overall safety and well-being of young inmates.