In an unprecedented move, Los Angeles County has agreed to a $4 billion settlement to resolve nearly 7,000 claims of sexual abuse in its juvenile facilities, with allegations dating back to 1959. This landmark agreement, pending approval from the county’s Board of Supervisors, stands as the largest settlement of its kind in U.S. history, surpassing previous settlements such as the Boy Scouts of America’s $2.46 billion and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles’s cumulative $1.5 billion payouts.
Many of these allegations are centered around the now-defunct MacLaren Children’s Center, which operated from 1961 until its closure in 2003. Originally intended as a safe haven for children awaiting foster placement, the facility became notorious for widespread abuse, with reports indicating that it functioned as a “house of horrors.” Investigations revealed that the center neglected to conduct criminal background checks on its staff for decades, contributing to the systemic abuse.
This settlement was facilitated by a 2020 California law – AB 218 – that temporarily lifted the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse cases, allowing survivors to seek justice regardless of when the abuse occurred. The agreement not only provides financial compensation to the victims but also mandates the implementation of reforms, including the establishment of a dedicated hotline and expedited investigation processes for future abuse allegations.
As legal representatives for many of the survivors, Herman Law is honored to have played a pivotal role in achieving this historic settlement. We are committed to advocating for systemic reforms that prioritize the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations. This agreement not only acknowledges the profound suffering endured by the victims but also sets a precedent for accountability and institutional change.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the survivors for their courage in coming forward and trust in our firm. We remain dedicated to ensuring that such injustices are addressed and prevented in the future.