Thirty officers at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Downey, California, have been charged with child endangerment and abuse related to ‘gladiator fights’ that they allegedly encouraged among youth detainees. The charges were announced by California Attorney General Rob Bonta on March 5, 2025, following an investigation into incidents that occurred between July and December 2023.
- Thirty officers charged for 'gladiator fights'
- Charges include child endangerment and battery
- 69 fights recorded at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall
- Investigation initiated after leaked video footage
- Officers observed fights without intervening
- Teens plan to sue the county for injuries
The allegations stem from an investigation initiated after footage of one fight was leaked. This footage showed multiple teens engaged in violent encounters while officers stood by without intervening. The investigation revealed that a total of 69 fights had taken place at the facility during the specified period, involving approximately 143 young individuals aged between 12 and 18 years old.
Key details include:
- Charges against the officers include conspiracy, battery, and child endangerment.
- The first group of twenty-two officers was formally arraigned on March 5, while eight others are scheduled for arraignment in April.
- The LA County Probation Department has placed all involved officers on leave without pay and expressed support for the attorney general’s actions.
Attorney General Bonta emphasized the responsibility of these officers to protect vulnerable youths under their care rather than allowing or promoting violence. He noted that video evidence depicted them behaving more like spectators than guardians during the fights. Following these developments, at least two affected teens have sought legal representation with plans to sue the county over their treatment within the facility.
This situation highlights serious misconduct within a juvenile detention setting meant to rehabilitate rather than harm its residents. As legal proceedings unfold, further scrutiny may lead to broader discussions about accountability and reform in youth justice systems across North America.
