Thirty juvenile detention officers assigned to Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in California have been charged with child abuse for allegedly allowing and encouraging “gladiator fights” among youths. The fights reportedly resulted in physical injuries, with at least 69 fights involving 143 children and teenagers in the second half of 2023. The officers were accused of overseeing the fights instead of intervening, taking advantage of the victims’ vulnerability and their position of trust.
The attorney general’s office launched an investigation after a video of one of the fights was leaked in January 2024, leading to the indictment. Each of the 30 officers faces felony child abuse charges, with potential prison sentences of two to six years if convicted. Three of the defendants also face charges of conspiracy to commit a crime.
The officers have been placed on unpaid leave, and investigations into the alleged abuse are ongoing. The L.A. County Probation Officers Union expressed support for the officers, emphasizing their presumption of innocence and commitment to professionalism. However, L.A. County officials have condemned the abuse, with Supervisor Janice Hahn calling for accountability and saying that firing could be considered for guilty officers.
The indictment underscores the need for a cultural change within the county’s probation system, as authorities strive to root out violence, drug use, neglect, and sexual misconduct. The attorney general’s office and state investigators continue to monitor the situation and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
