(Photo – lacounty.gov)
Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger and Chair Pro Tem Hilda L. Solis have both voiced support for California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s request to place the Los Angeles County Probation Department under state receivership, a rare and sweeping intervention that signals deep concern over the department’s ongoing dysfunction, particularly within its juvenile facilities.
By News Desk
“I am not surprised by Attorney General Bonta’s request,” Barger said in a statement issued today. “In truth, this moment has been a long time coming.”
Barger, who has been outspoken about systemic issues within the department for years, did not mince words. She acknowledged internal mismanagement and even pointed to the Board itself as part of the problem, citing a pattern of micromanagement.
“Today’s action is a direct repudiation of our Board’s ability to effectively oversee this department,” she said.
The Attorney General’s move follows a string of high-profile failures, safety concerns, and growing criticism over the department’s handling of youth facilities. Barger stressed that the top priority must remain the welfare of juveniles in county care.
“They deserve safe facilities, meaningful rehabilitative programs, and a system that offers them a path to growth and accountability,” she said.
Chair Pro Tem Hilda L. Solis echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need to protect youth in county custody and support efforts toward accountability and reform.
“I support the Attorney General’s decision to pursue receivership over Los Angeles County’s juvenile halls, an important and necessary step to safeguard the well-being of the youth in our custody,” Solis stated. “This action reflects a continued commitment to accountability and reform as we work to address deep-rooted issues and help drive progress forward.”
Solis noted that she co-led an emergency proclamation late last year aimed at confronting the systemic failures within the Probation Department and the additional challenges posed by Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall.
No immediate timeline has been announced for the potential receivership.
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