Los Angeles County has announced a tentative $4 billion settlement to address over 6,800 claims of childhood sexual abuse, spanning incidents dating back to the 1950s. This agreement, described as a landmark resolution, aims to provide justice for survivors who allege abuse at county-run facilities, including probation centers and the MacLaren Children’s Center.
The settlement, revealed on April 4, 2025, will be reviewed by the LA County Claims Board on April 7 and, if approved, forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for a final decision on April 29. If finalized, it would mark the largest financial settlement in the county’s history, with significant budgetary implications for decades to come. Funding will likely involve reserve funds, departmental budget reductions, and long-term bonds, requiring substantial annual payments through 2050-51.
The claims stem from allegations of abuse primarily from the 1980s to 2000s, though some date as far back as 1959. Enabled by Assembly Bill 218, a 2020 California law extending the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse cases, survivors have been able to seek accountability for past wrongs. While the settlement would resolve most claims filed under this law, some cases remain pending.
County officials expressed deep regret for the harm caused. “We are fully committed to supporting survivors in their recovery and ensuring systemic reforms to protect young people,” said Chief Executive Officer Fesia Davenport. An independent team of experts will oversee the fair distribution of settlement funds to individual claimants.
The agreement follows years of legal action, including a significant 2022 lawsuit representing 1,200 survivors who alleged abuse in Los Angeles county juvenile facilities. Attorneys involved hailed the settlement as a step toward restorative justice, acknowledging past failures while prioritizing prevention through meaningful change. Two related cases have been referred to the district attorney’s office, with investigations ongoing.
For those seeking support or information, resources are available through local authorities and victim advocacy organizations. Anonymous tips can be reported to the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or lacrimestoppers.org.
The news highlighted on this page speaks to the importance of uncovering the truth and holding responsible parties accountable in cases of child sexual abuse. Saul Wolf at Easton & Easton brings years of focused experience in this complex area of law, having secured significant outcomes in high-profile cases, with settlements in the sum of six, seven, and eight figures against Church Entities (including the Roman Catholic Church), Private Schools and Public School Districts (including LAUSD), Youth Servicing Organizations (including Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs) Youth Sports Organizations and National Governing Bodies (including USA Water Polo, and USA Cheer). His ongoing work is driven by a commitment to seeking justice for those whose lives have been impacted by these devastating betrayals of trust.
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