The Department of Justice on Oct. 13 announced the launch of a statewide investigation into allegations of physical and sexual abuse of children at five correctional centers run by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. “Our investigation will focus on whether there is a pattern or practice of physical or sexual abuse of children in Texas’s secure facilities,” U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Kristen Clarke, said in remarks announcing the investigation. “We will also investigate whether there is a pattern or practice of harm as a result of the excessive use of chemical restraints, excessive use of isolation, or a lack of adequate mental health services.” At least 11 staff members of juvenile facilities across Texas have been arrested over the course of several years for sexually abusing children in their care. There are also reports of staff members paying children with drugs and cash to assault other children. …