Tutor, Ward Charged with Smuggling 170 Xanax into Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall

Alejandro Lopez, a civilian contract tutor for the nonprofit Student Nest, and Orlando Cuevas, a young adult ward at Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, have been charged with smuggling approximately 170 Xanax pills into the facility. Lopez allegedly handed the pills to Cuevas in a tape-wrapped bundle on June 30, 2025, leading to felony charges for both individuals, including possession for sale of a controlled substance. Lopez pleaded not guilty and was released on his own recognizance, while Cuevas awaits arraignment. Officials, including Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman and Chief Probation Officer Guillermo Viera Rosa, condemned the incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining secure, drug-free juvenile facilities to protect the health and rehabilitation of incarcerated youth. The case highlights ongoing challenges at Los Padrinos, which has faced criticism and investigations for systemic issues including drug smuggling and violence among inmates and staff. County Supervisor Janice Hahn expressed profound disappointment and called for accountability and answers regarding how narcotics could enter the facility through contracted workers.