Colorado Youth Services Director Has Resigned
Alex Stojsavljevic will step down from his leadership position following a year-long tenure with the state agency.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in People
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Colorado Division of Youth Services Director Alex Stojsavljevic has resigned to pursue a new opportunity in Ohio. Deputy Director Natalie Chrastil will take over the role on an interim basis until a permanent replacement is found.
Why it matters
The agency is currently navigating a federal investigation concerning conditions at its youth prison facilities. The leadership transition follows recent personnel changes at one of the state's detention centers.
The Colorado Division of Youth Services employs 1,000 people and oversees operations across 10 detention centers. The department is presently under federal scrutiny regarding institutional conditions.
The players
Alex Stojsavljevic
He is the outgoing director of the Colorado Division of Youth Services who will depart for a new role in Ohio.
Natalie Chrastil
She is the Deputy Director who will serve as the interim director of the Colorado Division of Youth Services following the resignation.
Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center
This is a state-operated detention facility that recently underwent leadership changes following staff terminations.
The details
Alex Stojsavljevic submitted his resignation after serving as director since mid-October 2025. This move coincides with broader organizational challenges, including the firing of two leaders at the Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center in September 2026.
Timeline
Alex Stojsavljevic was hired in mid-October 2025.
Two leaders at Lookout Mountain Youth Services Center were fired in September 2026.
Alex Stojsavljevic will leave his position on October 23, 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition occurs as the agency manages intense public and federal scrutiny regarding internal safety protocols. The departure follows a pattern of high-level personnel adjustments as the department grapples with the ongoing federal investigation into Colorado youth prison conditions.
The transition to interim leadership may shift administrative priorities while the agency continues to manage its 10 detention facilities. Residents should monitor future state announcements regarding permanent appointments and ongoing federal oversight outcomes.
The takeaway
The change in director arrives at a critical juncture for Colorado's juvenile detention system. Stability for the department will likely depend on how the interim leadership manages the ongoing federal investigation.
Further reading
For more on state departmental transitions, visit Colorado People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Denver Post.
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