Since January 1, 66 sworn probation officers in Los Angeles County have been placed on leave pending investigations for various alleged offenses, including sexual misconduct and youth-on-youth violence. Of those officers, 14 are related to youth-on-youth violence at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Downey, with investigations being conducted by the office of California Attorney General Rob Bonta. Additionally, 39 officers are accused of general misconduct, while 18 are suspected of sexual misconduct and nine for arrests unrelated to their employment. The probation agency chief Guillermo Viera Rosa stated that this information is being released for transparency and to assure stakeholders that they will not tolerate behavior that impedes their mission of providing a safe environment for those in their care.
The probation officers who have been placed on leave were working in both adult and juvenile operations within the department. Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, which reopened last year to replace two other facilities that were closed in 2019, has faced scrutiny from the California Board of State and Community Corrections. In February, the Board declared Los Padrinos and another youth facility unsuitable to house youthful offenders, giving them 60 days to rectify any issues. However, in April, the Board reversed its finding after determining that improvements had been made. Despite not revealing details about the latest violence at the facility, the probation department is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of those under its care.
Probation agency chief Guillermo Viera Rosa emphasized that the majority of their nearly 2,800 sworn personnel perform their duties with integrity on a daily basis. The 66 officers placed on leave represent only a small minority, and action was taken swiftly to address any misconduct. Rosa stated that it is unfair for the majority of officers to be tarnished by the actions of a few, and they will not tolerate behavior that goes against their mission and the important work they do. Authorities have been working to address the issues at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall and ensure that necessary improvements are made to protect the welfare of the youth in their care.
Fox News Digital has reached out to both Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office and the Probation Department for further information on the investigations and allegations against the probation officers. The department’s commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in their decision to release information about the officers placed on leave and the nature of the allegations against them. By taking action against those accused of misconduct, the department is demonstrating its dedication to upholding high standards of professionalism and ensuring the safety and well-being of those under their supervision. Ongoing investigations will reveal more details about the alleged offenses and the steps being taken to address any issues within the probation system in Los Angeles County.
