Thirty officers at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall in Southern California have been charged with facilitating “gladiator fights” between youth in their care.

A grand jury indictment claims the officers allowed or encouraged nearly 70 fights between July and December 2023, involving over 140 victims aged 12-18.

Charges include child endangerment, abuse, conspiracy, and battery.

The investigation began after footage surfaced showing officers watching a brutal fight without intervening.

The LA County Probation Department has placed all involved officers on leave, the Associated Press has reported.

Attorneys claim this incident reflects a larger culture of violence and lack of accountability at the facility.

Written by B.C. Begley