L.A. County Probation Department Employee Arrested for Sexual Activity With Detained Youth

(Photo – lacounty.gov)

A Los Angeles County Probation Officer was arrested and charged with unlawful sexual activity with a male youth detainee.

By News Desk

Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis released the following statement:

“The County of Los Angeles is contending with lawsuits from the past about allegations of sexual trauma in our facilities and yet, there continues to be a disturbing pattern of staff, who are in roles to protect, preying on those that need guidance and protection. I applaud Probation leadership for taking swift action against the staff member, however, there needs to be a clear message of zero tolerance policy on any form of abuse and swift consequences that follow to eradicate the culture that enables these crimes to occur.

Additionally, it was disappointing that this staff member was also found bringing pills into our facilities when many of our youth have suffered from overdoses and substance use dependencies. In fact, last year, I authored a motion to tackle the very issue of ensuring that searches also be conducted on staff, as they provide one of many ways illegal and illicit substances enter the facilities.

My priority continues to be safety for these youth and that includes keeping them safe from wayward staff who are endangering and preying on our youth. My expectation is that Probation’s leadership thoroughly investigate this incident and discipline all, including staff, who continue to harm our youth.”