Sup. Barger Responds to Board Opposition for Notification of Sexually Violent Predator Community Release

LOS ANGELES COUNTY – Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued the following statement in response to the Board of Supervisors rejecting her motion, which asked the District Attorney and Sheriff to begin notifying the Board any time the California Department of State Hospitals makes a recommendation to the Superior Court to send a person committed as a sexually violent predator to outpatient treatment in the community. The motion also asked that the District Attorney and Sheriff notify the Supervisor representing the district where the placement is being considered by the Court. Supervisors Hilda Solis, Holly Mitchell and Shelia Kuehl cast the no votes opposing this motion.

“It is essential that placements of sexually violent predators into local communities are made with the collaboration of all those impacted to ensure that appropriate services are provided and public safety is ensured. I am disappointed that my colleagues have chosen to turn their backs on what should be a fair and equitable process to provide a voice for everyone involved.

“I remain committed to supporting my communities and residents. I will continue to aggressively pursue advanced notification so my constituents are aware anytime the State makes a recommendation to send a person committed as a sexually violent predator into a 5th District community.”