Recently, thirty officers at a Southern California juvenile detention facility have been charged for their involvement in organizing 'gladiator fights' among the youth under their care. The state's attorney general revealed that the officers at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Los Angeles County allegedly allowed and even encouraged nearly 70 fights to occur between July 2023 and December 2023, involving over 140 victims aged between 12 and 18.
Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that the fights were premeditated, with specific times and locations set for them to take place. Charges against the officers include child endangerment, abuse, conspiracy, and battery. Twenty-two of the officers were set to be arraigned at the Los Angeles County Superior Court.
The investigation was initiated after footage surfaced showing a 17-year-old being attacked by multiple individuals while officers stood by, some even appearing to engage with the assailants. This video was presented during a court hearing where concerns were raised about the safety of the youth at the facility.
The indictment highlights two probation officers who allegedly informed staff in advance about the fights and instructed them not to intervene or document the incidents. It also alleges that one officer advised the youths involved to reject medical treatment after the altercations.
The LA County Probation Department, responsible for the facility, expressed full support for the attorney general's actions and confirmed that all implicated officers are currently on unpaid leave. The department emphasized its commitment to accountability and zero tolerance for misconduct among its staff.
Legal representative Jamal Tooson, representing the 17-year-old victim and other affected families, described the indictment as just the beginning of addressing systemic issues within the probation department. Tooson highlighted a concerning culture of violence and negligence within the facility, citing additional cases of severe harm inflicted on young detainees.
As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, the case sheds light on the critical need for oversight and reform within juvenile detention facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable youth in custody.
