Youth ranch agrees to state oversight

A central New Mexico ranch for troubled youth has settled its lawsuit against the state, agreeing to some oversight.
Tierra Blanca Ranch High County Youth Program had sued the state last year, challenging the state’s investigation of its program and an October raid that sought custody of nine minors.
Under the agreement signed Friday, the ranch has agreed to give the Children Youth and Families Department access to students and their files for the next 12 months.
The ranch also agrees not to use restraints and to supervise teens place in segregation.

Both sides claimed victory.

Ranch operator Scott Chandler says the agreement provides a management structure without complex regulations. CYFD spokesman Henry Varela says it gives the agency access to the kids until it can try again to pass a law regulating such programs.