WILLEMSTAD – Charetti Alberto-Pinedo has stepped down from her position as head of the Juvenile Justice Institution Curaçao (JJIC), following recent unrest and growing concerns over conditions at the facility.
Charetti Alberto-Pinedo
Her resignation was submitted on Wednesday afternoon after mutual agreement with Minister of Justice Shalten Hato. According to information shared with staff, Alberto-Pinedo informed employees of her departure via email on her final day in office.
The resignation comes in the wake of a series of troubling developments at JJIC earlier this week. On Monday evening, youths at the facility reportedly revolted, with some managing to escape while staff attempted to regain control.
The unrest was reportedly driven by complaints about poor living conditions, including shortages of basic necessities such as food, hygiene products, and sanitary items for female residents.
Following the incident, Minister Hato visited the facility and described the situation as “very concerning,” emphasizing that the institution must provide a safe and stable environment for vulnerable youths placed there due to unsafe home situations.
The departure of the JJIC director is seen as a direct consequence of the recent events, as authorities face increasing pressure to address conditions at the institution and restore order.
It remains unclear who will take over leadership of JJIC on an interim or permanent basis. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice is expected to implement measures aimed at improving conditions and ensuring proper care and supervision for the youths housed at the facility.