Los Angeles County has agreed to pay $2.7 million to a teenager who says he was forced to fight in what prosecutors have described as staged “gladiator-style” brawls inside a juvenile detention center. The move comes as 30 correctional officers face charges for allegedly orchestrating and allowing the attacks to happen.
Where does the case arise from?
The teenager’s attack took place in 2023 at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall. Surveillance footage shows at least six other youths attacking him while staff looked on. The video also captures staff members shaking hands with some of the attackers after the incident.
The teen’s attorney, Jamal Tooson, told The Associated Press the June 3 settlement could help raise awareness about problems within the Los Angeles County Probation Department.
“Our priority needs to be not just protecting my client but all children in similar circumstances under the care and watch of the probation department,” he said.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors stated that, based on the risks associated with the case and the uncertainties of litigation, it’s best to settle now. Each member was presented with a case summary detailing the allegations.
“Plaintiff claims that upon arrival at Los Padrinos, (Deputy Probation Officer) One and her colleagues demanded to know Plaintiff’s gang affiliation,” the document states. “Plaintiff responded that he was not a gang member. DPO One responded that she was aware he was from the ’Canoga’ gang, and commented that she ’hoped he could fight.’”
The investigation began after the Los Angeles Times obtained video footage of the beating. In March 2025, a California grand jury indicted 30 correctional officers at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, accusing them of not only allowing the fights but encouraging nearly 70 violent incidents over several months in 2023. According to court records, there are more than 140 victims who were involved in the fights between 12 and 18 years of age.
The officers face allegations of abusing their positions of trust by allowing vulnerable teens to engage in violent “gladiator fights,” causing serious physical harm.
Charges lead to change at juvenile center
After charges were filed against Los Padrinos staff, a Los Angeles Superior Court judge barred the county’s Probation Department from holding juveniles at the facility and ordered a plan for relocating them. The plan was submitted to the court on May 2, outlining a phased approach to reduce the center’s population by 100 juveniles.
“This is a responsible and thoughtful step forward that reflects our commitment to court compliance, operational reform, and youth rehabilitation,” said Chief Probation Officer Guillermo Viera Rosa. “While this is not a final plan, it represents a strong foundation to realign youth with the right programs and services—and do so in a way that brings lasting, systemwide improvements.”
Former inmates allege sexual abuse at center
In recent years, individuals previously held at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall have accused staff members of sexual abuse. Alleged victims came forward in 2022 and 2024 through lawsuits, reporting assaults that occurred while they were incarcerated. One victim says she was just 12 years old at the time.
Years of trouble at Los Padrinos
In 2024, California Attorney General Rob Bonta requested that Los Angeles County update a court order after the county failed to improve conditions in its juvenile halls, including Los Padrinos. Reports show staffing shortages and unsafe conditions.
The amended order would require better staffing, stronger policies, more training and tighter oversight. It also calls for public safety reports, improved camera coverage and steps to prevent retaliation against youth who speak up.
The original court order followed earlier failures to stop violence, drug use and retaliation inside the facilities. The new terms include appointing deputy monitors if the county fails to comply, ensuring youth receive medical care and regular visits, and hiring ombudspersons to address grievances.
LA County ordered to pay settlement in separate abuse case
In April, Los Angeles County agreed to a $4 billion settlement to victims of sexual abuse at several juvenile detention centers within the county. According to complaints filed on behalf of thousands of victims, youths were assaulted by staff, many of whom had criminal records or were not properly vetted to work with children.
