The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has approved a historic $4 billion settlement to resolve over 6,800 claims of sexual abuse in juvenile facilities and foster care dating back to the 1980s. The settlement, described as the largest of its kind in county history, addresses allegations of abuse primarily linked to the MacLaren Children’s Center, which closed in 2003.
The claims span decades, with incidents reportedly occurring as far back as 1959. Many survivors have accused staff members of sexual abuse and mistreatment in institutions designed to protect them. According to BBC News, the settlement follows a 2020 California law that allowed victims of childhood sexual abuse to file civil claims beyond the usual statute of limitations.
The settlement will be paid over five years, with funds sourced from reserve funds, bonds, and budget cuts across county departments. County CEO Fesia Davenport issued a public apology, stating, “The historic scope of this settlement makes clear that we are committed to helping the survivors recover and rebuild their lives.” AP News reports that the payout will have significant long-term financial implications for the county’s budget.
While the settlement provides financial compensation, some victims have chosen to pursue legal action independently. As noted by ABC7, the settlement also aims to implement systemic changes to prevent future abuses and ensure accountability. The agreement requires court approval and includes oversight to manage financial exposure while prioritizing victim compensation.
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