Shavondra Smith, now 36 years old, spoke at the emergency press conference called by the Black Dallas Clergy and provided details of her stint at the center.
From 13 to 17 years old, Smith was in and out of the justice center and recalled her experience at the facility.
“We were locked in our cells multiple times. Five of us, I know, tried to commit suicide at the same time because we were put on lock down,” said Smith.
She along with many others and the Dallas Black Clergy are calling for changes to be made at the detention center after damming reports have shed light on unsavory conditions. Â