STAR Academy Programs Voluntarily Relocated As A Precaution Due To Fire Threat

July 17, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Michael Winder, Communications & Information Manager

STAR Academy Programs Voluntarily Relocated As A Precaution Due To Fire Threat

PIERRE, S.D. -  Youth at the east campus of the State Treatment and Rehabilitation (STAR) Academy near Custer were voluntarily relocated today as a precaution because of a nearby fire.

 

A total of 39 females in the ExCEL and QUEST programs were moved by the Department of Corrections because of the proximity of the Switch Back Draw Fire to the campus in Custer State Park.

 

The fire was not immediately threatening the east campus, but the decision to voluntarily move the youth was made in part due to potentially changing weather conditions as the result of a storm forming in the Black Hills.

 

All of the youth were transported safely to the STAR Academy west campus located south of Custer late this afternoon. They will stay at the west campus until DOC staff members can determine when it is safe to return.

 

STAR Academy staff members are notifying the families of the youth that were moved.

 

                                                      -30-