Los Angeles County has agreed to a historic $4 billion settlement to resolve thousands of sexual abuse claims, marking what is set to be the largest such settlement in U.S. history. The agreement, which still requires approval from the county’s board of supervisors, aims to compensate nearly 7,000 individuals who were abused while in juvenile facilities and children’s homes between the 1980s and 2000s.
County Chief Executive Officer Fesia Davenport expressed deep regret, offering a public apology on behalf of the county to all survivors of the abuse. “The historic scope of this settlement makes clear our commitment to helping survivors recover and rebuild their lives,” Davenport said, emphasizing the county’s commitment to systemic changes to protect vulnerable children.
The settlement stems from a 2020 state law that extended the statute of limitations for victims of childhood sexual abuse, enabling many survivors to come forward with their stories of abuse, particularly at the now-closed MacLaren Children’s Center.
Shirley Bodkin, one of the survivors, said she was “in total shock” by the settlement. She recalled being drugged, beaten, and sexually abused at MacLaren, adding that she had waited years for justice. However, for some victims like MaryAlice Ashbrook, who was abused in the 1960s, the news of the settlement brought a mix of relief and emotional turmoil, with Ashbrook describing the news as “slamming” her heart shut.
The $4 billion settlement significantly surpasses previous large settlements, such as the $2.46 billion paid by the Boy Scouts of America to settle abuse claims. Los Angeles County officials acknowledged the financial strain the settlement would impose, warning that the payment plan would involve annual payments through 2030, with continued payments until 2050-51.
