A 16-year-old boy who suffered a traumatic brain injury during a brutal “gladiator-style” fight inside Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Downey has been awarded a $2.7 million settlement from Los Angeles County.
The incident, captured on video nearly 18 months ago but only recently made public, shows the teen being severely beaten by another detainee in what attorneys describe as an orchestrated fight. The footage, according to the victim’s legal team, underscores a systemic culture of abuse and neglect within the juvenile detention facility.
The teen’s lawyer negotiated the multi-million-dollar settlement with county officials, who have not publicly admitted liability.
The case has brought renewed scrutiny to the county’s juvenile justice system. Roughly 30 Los Angeles County detention officers have been indicted in connection with organized fights at the facility. Prosecutors allege officers encouraged or allowed the violence to occur.
Charges against the officers include child abuse, conspiracy, and battery. At least a dozen have entered not guilty pleas.
A judge has since approved plans to depopulate the troubled youth facilities as part of broader reform efforts.
