Thirty detention service officers at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall have been charged with child endangerment, conspiracy, and battery for permitting over 100 teenagers to engage in violent ‘gladiator fights.’ California Attorney General Rob Bonta reported that the officers allowed 69 fights between July and December 2023. Footage revealed officers standing idly by as teenagers faced off. Following the indictment, the officers were placed on leave without pay as the Los Angeles County Probation Department emphasized their commitment to holding peace officers accountable for misconduct, particularly involving vulnerable youth.
Bonta alleged the officers had permitted, or encouraged, 69 fights between 143 children from July 1, 2023, to Dec. 31, 2023, at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall.
‘The indictment - and the filing of criminal charges - is an important step toward holding these officers accountable and addressing shortfalls at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall,’ Bonta said.
‘Accountability is a cornerstone of our mission, and we have zero tolerance for misconduct of any peace officers, especially those dealing with young people in our system,’ the department's statement said.
‘Watching the video, the officers look more like referees or audience members...’
#juvenile-justice #child-welfare #law-enforcement-accountability #california #los-padrinos-juvenile-hall
Collection
[
|
...
]