Thirty Los Angeles County probation officers have been charged with child abuse for staging 'gladiator fights' between youth detainees at a troubled juvenile detention facility. The officers are accused of standing by and not intervening as the fights occurred.
Key Points
30 probation officers charged with child abuse for organizing 'gladiator fights'
At least 69 fights involving up to 140 youths occurred between July 1 and Dec. 31, 2023
Officers stood by as the fights happened, not intervening to keep the youth safe
Pros
California Attorney General taking action against the officers
Probation Department placing charged officers on leave without pay
Seeking assistance from law enforcement to address the issue
Cons
Deeply troubling incidents of child abuse and misconduct
Operational issues, violence, and staffing shortages at the detention facility