February 12, 2024
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LA County Probation Chief Announces New Task Force Focused on Contraband in Juvenile Institutions
LA County Probation Department establishes the Juvenile Safety and Welfare Task Force
Los Angeles County Probation Chief Guillermo Viera Rosa today announced the formation of an interagency law enforcement task force focused on the interdiction of contraband within the Department’s juvenile institutions.
Following several events at the Department’s juvenile detention facilities, the Juvenile Safety and Welfare Task Force, led by Task Force Commander Raynard Ward, will be responsible for conducting criminal investigations and prosecuting anyone attempting to bring contraband into the juvenile detention facilities.
“The opioid fentanyl epidemic has affected so many in a variety of detrimental ways, and we want to do our part as public servants to put a stop to it,” said Chief Viera Rosa. “Through the formation of this task force, we are dedicated to ensuring that those who contribute to the distribution of illegal substances to our youth within the detention facilities are held accountable. The Juvenile Safety and Welfare Task Force is a crucial stride in our collective efforts to create a secure environment. Our goal is to provide a safe, therapeutic, and rehabilitative environment that prepares the youth for a successful transition back into the community as responsible and productive citizens,” states Chief Viera Rosa.
The Juvenile Safety and Welfare Task Force will be run out of the Probation Department and staffed with members from different agencies who are experts in ensuring facility security, investigating, enforcement, and prosecution. The mission of the Task Force will include:
- Investigating and prosecuting violations of the law in response to incidents of trafficking illegal contraband into youth detention facilities.
- Combating unlawful efforts to undermine the safety of detained youth and maintain a safe and secure environment.
- Targeting outreach and prevention efforts to youth and parents, caregivers, and guardians to provide education about the risk of vaping, use of illegal drugs and what rises to the level of a contraband/crime in facilities.
“The Task Force is in direct response to my being brought into this department to identify strategies for improving safety at our juvenile facilities,” continued Chief Viera Rosa. “In addition to the task force, I am also exploring ways to develop stronger partnerships between staff, parents, support networks, and our youth to keep our facilities safe and free from drugs.”
The establishment of the Juvenile Safety and Welfare Task Force underscores the department’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment within its juvenile institutions. The task force will support the department’s efforts to prevent contraband from entering the facilities, ensuring the well-being of youth, staff, and visitors.
“Under my leadership, we will ensure the safety of our youth and work to vigorously seek prosecution of individuals who traffic contraband into our juvenile facilities,” said Chief Viera Rosa. “We will work tirelessly to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those whose criminal acts compromise the safety of our youth. Let me be clear, if you violate our laws, we will hold you accountable. Our youth deserve better!”