In Los Angeles, a concerning situation has emerged at the Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, where thirty officers have been charged related to their involvement in orchestrating “gladiator fights” among the youth in their custody. The allegations, announced by the state’s attorney general, reveal that these incidents were not just spontaneous acts of violence but planned events allegedly encouraged by staff.
The grand jury indictment states that these fights, allegedly numbering around 70, took place between July and December 2023 and involved over 140 young victims aged 12 to 18. Attorney General Rob Bonta commented on the situation, indicating that there was a systematic approach to organizing these fights, suggesting that certain times and locations were predetermined for these violent encounters.
The charges levied against the officers include child endangerment, abuse, conspiracy, and battery. Out of the 30 officers, 22 were scheduled to be arraigned at the Los Angeles County Superior Court on Monday.
This issue came to light after a footage was released showing a 17-year-old being attacked by six other youths while officers seemingly observed without intervening. The disturbing video led to significant public outcry as officers were seen laughing and interacting positively with the attackers.
Notably, the indictment highlights two probation officers who reportedly notified staff in advance that fights were scheduled, and instructed them to remain silent and passive during the events. It also accuses one officer of advising youths to refuse medical treatment after the fights.
In response to the allegations, the LA County Probation Department, which oversees the facility, expressed full support for the indictments. They have placed all implicated officers on leave without pay, emphasizing their commitment to accountability and taking prompt action when misconduct was discovered.
Jamal Tooson, the attorney representing the family of the 17-year-old involved in this particular case, views the indictments as an initial step toward uncovering deeper systemic issues within the department. He described an entrenched culture of impunity, violence, and deliberate negligence as revealed by the video.
Tooson, who also represents other affected families, highlighted the troubling normalcy with which other detained youths reacted to the violence, indicating that such incidents might be part of their regular experience. Among his clients is another child who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being attacked in a classroom setting.
