It was standing room only in the lobby of the Rutherford County Juvenile Detention Center on Thursday afternoon as Judge Donna Scott Davenport held the third annual open house. 

The complex at 1710 South Church Street is a 64-bed facility that provides secure housing for juveniles who are awaiting court dispositions or transportation to a permanent placement.

It was explained that individual cells (called pods) were used rather than a dormitory setting. This is to keep opposing gang members apart as well as separate youth who have committed the more serious crime from lesser offenses. 

In an earlier broadcast, Judge Davenport explained that instead of a focusing on punishment found in adult penal facilities, the Rutherford County Juvenile Detention Center attempts to work with the young offenders and their parents and guardians to resolve the issues that create problems. 

There must have been a large numbers of juvenile arrests shortly before the event began, as the person giving the tour apologized for not being able to show the booking area. She noted it was being used heavily at this time.