CHINO – (INT) - The City of Chino is negotiating with the Department of corrections to purchase the Heman Stark Youth Correctional Facility.

The Youth Training School or YTS was closed in 2010 due to persistent violence and “unsafe and unsatisfactory conditions,” including the murder of a prison counselor. It became known as the “Gladiator School” for its reputation of hardening young wards for what awaited them in men’s prison. As many as 3-thousand boys were processed through the YTS.

City officials say they will work with residents and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan for the site that will benefit the entire community, including potential housing, commercial uses, and an agricultural education component.

The sale of the YTS was made possible under Senate bill 536.

Story Date: November 2, 2024