Va. weighs privatizing predator detention program

RICHMOND — Virginia officials are considering privatizing a costly and rapidly expanding program that indefinitely detains sex offenders who've already served their prison sentences.

In the meantime, some residents at the Burkeville psychiatric facility where they are held are threatening to sue if the state goes through with plans to double-bunk them. A $62 million, 300-bed facility that opened three years ago to house people deemed sexually violent predators is expected to be full as early as July.

Florida-based GEO Care has offered to run Virginia's program. The company promises to double the number of beds at the center without using any extra state funds, among other things.

The state is giving companies until June 2 to submit competing proposals.