STATEMENT FROM CHIEF PROBATION OFFICER ON EMERGENCY PROCLAMATION BY COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

LOS ANGELES — This emergency proclamation is necessary to address the significant risks to public safety and ensure the continuity of care, supervision, and rehabilitative programming for the more than 240 youth currently housed at Los Padrinos.

As Supervisors Barger and Solis said this morning, and I echo the sentiment, drastic and decisive measures are needed to root deep-seated issues plaguing our only secured youth facility, Los Padrinos. Closing that facility without an adequate alternative in place will disrupt vital services and would potentially create a perilous situation for all involved.

We also strongly support the Board of Supervisors’ directive to pursue legal strategies to prevent the premature release of youth and to ensure public safety is upheld. At the same time, we remain committed to providing care and services to youth, recognizing that they deserve a secure, supportive, and rehabilitative environment.

The Probation Department stands ready to implement every measure outlined in the proclamation, and thank Supervisors Barger and Solis, and the Board of Supervisors, for their continued commitment and support.

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