What to Do If You Suspect Sexual Abuse at Pitchess or Another LA County Jail
If you suspect sexual abuse or harassment at Pitchess - or any LA County jail run by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) - report it. LASD has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse and harassment of people in custody. That includes abuse by staff, volunteers, contractors, medical or mental health workers, or other incarcerated people. You don't need proof before speaking up. The goal is getting the concern to someone who can act on it.
Non-retaliation: LASD states you will not be punished for making a report in good faith.
How to Report Overview
- ✓ Tell any LASD staff member or volunteer working at the facility
- ✓ Submit a written grievance
- ✓ Submit a written medical request form
Want to report without going through facility staff? LA Crime Stoppers accepts reports of sexual abuse. Incarcerated people can call (800) 222-8477 or dial *21 from any inmate phone. These calls are anonymous, free, and not recorded or monitored - a solid option if privacy or retaliation is a concern.
Timing matters for medical and forensic care. If the abuse happened within 120 hours of reporting, LASD may transport the person to a local medical facility for a Sexual Abuse Forensic Examination.
A Sexual Abuse Forensic Examination is a medical exam performed by a specially trained nurse or doctor. They provide medical care and collect evidence at the same time - addressing health needs while preserving information that could matter for an investigation.
Time-sensitive: Reporting within 120 hours can help preserve access to a Sexual Abuse Forensic Examination and care from specially trained medical staff.
Family members and others outside the jail can report on behalf of an incarcerated person using the same pathways. Tell someone who works or volunteers at the facility, or report through LA Crime Stoppers. For people inside, Crime Stoppers is reachable at (800) 222-8477 or by dialing *21 from any inmate phone.
Privacy and protection: LASD notes Crime Stoppers reports can be anonymous, free, and not recorded or monitored - and that you will not be punished for making a report in good faith.
Quick Action Summary
- ✓ Report it to any LASD staff member or volunteer at the facility
- ✓ File it in writing by submitting a written grievance
- ✓ Request help in writing by submitting a written medical request form
- ✓ Use LA Crime Stoppers: call (800) 222-8477, or dial *21 from any inmate phone
- ✓ Report as soon as possible - if the abuse occurred within 120 hours of reporting, the person may be transported for a Sexual Abuse Forensic Examination
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