Overview

• Attorney General Rob Bonta filed the civil lawsuit Monday against Los Angeles County, the Sheriff’s Department, and County Correctional Health Services.
• Bonta called the system a humanitarian crisis in one of the nation’s largest local jail networks, citing filthy, unsafe facilities and denial of basic needs.
• The state cites more than 205 in-custody deaths over four years, with about three dozen reported this year and roughly 40% linked to suicide, homicide, or overdose.
• Investigators describe overflowing toilets, feces on walls, rat and roach infestations, spoiled food, and a lack of clean water for drinking and bathing.
• The suit alleges county leaders resisted oversight and spent millions fighting change, while the Sheriff’s Department said a formal response is forthcoming.