Sat Apr 05 15:33:52 UTC 2025: ## Los Angeles County Agrees to $4 Billion Settlement in Historic Sex Abuse Case

**Los Angeles, CA** – Los Angeles County announced Friday a landmark $4 billion settlement to resolve thousands of childhood sexual abuse lawsuits dating back decades. This agreement, pending approval by the Board of Supervisors, is poised to become the largest-ever settlement of its kind. The funds will compensate nearly 7,000 victims who suffered abuse at county juvenile facilities and children’s homes between the 1980s and 2000s.

County CEO Fesia Davenport issued a public apology, stating, “On behalf of the county, I apologize wholeheartedly to everyone who was harmed by these reprehensible acts.” She emphasized the county’s commitment to helping survivors rebuild their lives and implementing systemic changes to protect children.

The settlement follows a 2020 state law extending the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse claims. This allowed thousands of adults to come forward with allegations of widespread abuse, particularly at the now-closed MacLaren Children’s Center, described by attorneys as a “house of horrors” where staff lacked proper background checks for decades.

Victims expressed mixed emotions. While relieved by the settlement, many remain deeply scarred by their experiences. Shirley Bodkin, a survivor who recounted horrific abuse at MacLaren, expressed shock and said, “I’ve been waiting all these years for this outcome.” Another survivor, MaryAlice Ashbrook, described the news as emotionally overwhelming.

The $4 billion settlement significantly surpasses previous large-scale abuse settlements, including the Boy Scouts of America’s $2.46 billion payout. County officials acknowledged the substantial financial impact, noting the plan includes using reserve funds, issuing bonds, and implementing budget cuts. Annual payments will reach hundreds of millions of dollars through 2030, with significant ongoing payments extending into 2051. The settlement marks a significant step towards addressing decades of systemic failures and providing some measure of justice for thousands of victims.

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