Overview

A recent report has identified critical staffing issues and officer missteps as contributing factors in the fentanyl-related death of a teenager at a Los Angeles County juvenile detention facility. The assessment highlights inadequate supervision and training deficiencies among probation officers.

The report follows the death of 18-year-old Bryan Diaz, who was in the Barry J. Nidorf Secure Youth Treatment Facility. His mother, Marlen Medina, is pursuing a federal wrongful death lawsuit against the county.

Key details

  • The death of Bryan Diaz occurred in May 2023.
  • Diaz was facing an attempted murder charge at the time of his death.
  • He had been at the juvenile facility for less than two months.
  • The county's assessment cites “inadequate supervision due to critical staffing issues.”
  • Probation officers lacked training and equipment to respond to overdoses.
  • Officers failed to conduct safety checks from 9 p.m. on May 8 to 8 a.m. on May 9.
  • State law mandates safety checks every 15 minutes.
  • Diaz's cell window was covered, obstructing staff from seeing inside.
  • Staff are required to remove any obstructions to visibility immediately.
  • Officers involved were disciplined for not adhering to department policy.
  • The Los Angeles County Claims Board has recommended a $2.5 million settlement to resolve the lawsuit.
  • The settlement is pending final approval from the Board of Supervisors.

Context

The death of Bryan Diaz has raised serious concerns about the operational practices within the Los Angeles County juvenile detention system, particularly regarding staff training and adherence to safety protocols.

What happens next

The county's attorneys are working to present the settlement to the Board of Supervisors for approval as soon as possible, following a lengthy review process.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific disciplinary actions taken against the officers involved are not confirmed. Additionally, allegations against a probation officer and a teacher regarding drug supply have not been addressed in the county's assessment.