California AG Investigates San Diego Juvenile Facilities for Unlawful Treatment

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has launched a civil rights investigation into San Diego County's juvenile detention facilities, specifically the East Mesa Juvenile Detention Facility and the Youth Transition Campus, to determine if there has been a pattern or practice of unlawful treatment of youth. The probe will also assess the educational services provided to incarcerated youth by the San Diego County Office of Education. While no specific incidents or allegations have been publicly identified as triggers for the investigation, past reports have highlighted concerns such as the use of pepper spray, physical force, sexual assault claims, and fentanyl overdoses in the county's juvenile halls. Both the San Diego County Probation Department and Office of Education have pledged full cooperation with the inquiry, emphasizing their commitment to safety, integrity, and quality education. This investigation follows similar scrutiny and state intervention in Los Angeles County's juvenile detention system, where serious staffing and safety issues persist. Attorney General Bonta has urged community members with relevant information to come forward as the investigation seeks to ensure that youth in detention are treated lawfully and provided a safe and supportive environment.