The Los Angeles Times reports that 11 or more California probation officers in the juvenile system have been convicted of inappropriate conduct involving current or former child probationers in their care–this includes several instances of molesting or beating these youths. 

Supervisors at these active and closed juvenile halls ignored unchecked harassment, rape, and sexual assault of child inmates by probation officers.

According to one witness: "Vulnerable children often enter the system because of abuse they have suffered at home or on the streets. The probation system should offer these youthful offenders restorative justice instead of perpetuating their cycle of abuse. The criminal conduct of those who used their positions of authority to sexually assault these children must be exposed. These despicable people and those who enabled them must be held accountable."

Over 20 years of news stories and county reports describe:

• Probation officers encourage fights among juveniles;
• Sexual contact between officers and minor inmates;
• Officers accused of criminal acts such as theft; and,
• A variety of other offenses were committed while on duty. 

Other accusations against guards include sexual assault of their child inmates, as well as allegations of guards’ improper use of pepper spray.

Los Angeles County runs one of the nation’s largest juvenile justice systems, with a population of probation officers responsible for protecting and reforming approximately 3,000 youths in 21 halls and halls.

The community supervision department operates on an annual budget of approximately $700 million and has been criticized recently for failing in its responsibilities to prevent, report, and document these instances of child abuse. 

According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, the following specific instances have been revealed through a collection of documents, records, and department sources.

Shield Justice Team believes victims of juvenile hall sexual abuse—and the families who suffer with them—should have every opportunity to get the help they deserve.