Former Juvenile Detention Worker Pleads Guilty to Sexual Misconduct

Wendy Warren faces up to 15 years in prison for inappropriate relationship with minor in her care

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:38pm

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An extreme close-up of a pair of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, the metallic texture and harsh lighting creating a stark, gritty visual metaphor for the criminal justice system.The harsh glare of a camera flash exposes the cold, clinical realities of an abuse of power within the juvenile justice system.Danville Today

A former employee at the W.W. Moore, Jr. Juvenile Detention Home in Danville, Virginia has pled guilty to multiple charges related to an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 15-year-old male resident under her supervision. Wendy Warren, a 42-year-old youth care worker, admitted to the non-forcible sexual contact that occurred over nearly a year's time before she was terminated in February 2023.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious breach of trust and abuse of power when staff at juvenile detention facilities engage in sexual misconduct with minors in their care. It raises concerns about oversight and training protocols at these facilities to prevent such incidents and protect vulnerable youth.

The details

An investigation revealed that between August 2022 and July 2023, Warren engaged in sexual contact with the 15-year-old male resident. Warren had worked at the detention home for 9 years prior to her arrest on February 23, 2023, shortly after the allegations were first reported on February 10th. She was immediately terminated on February 12th.

  • Warren was arrested on February 23, 2023.
  • The alleged inappropriate relationship occurred between August 2022 and July 2023.
  • Warren will be sentenced on May 19, 2023.

The players

Wendy Warren

A 42-year-old former youth care worker at the W.W. Moore, Jr. Juvenile Detention Home in Danville, Virginia who pled guilty to sexual misconduct with a minor in her custody.

W.W. Moore, Jr. Juvenile Detention Home

A juvenile detention facility located in Danville, Virginia where the inappropriate relationship took place.

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What’s next

Warren will be sentenced on May 19th and is facing up to 15 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for robust training, oversight, and accountability measures at juvenile detention facilities to prevent staff from exploiting the vulnerable youth in their charge.