Los Angeles County Probation Department and County Leaders Launch College and Career Pathway Program to Offer Second Chances for Justice Involved Youth
Completion of the College Program May Qualify Youth For Case Dismissal
LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles County Probation Department, in collaboration with the LA County District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, Superior Court, and Los Angeles Mission College, has launched a new College and Career Pathway Program or CCPP aimed at providing second chances for justice-involved youth. In lieu of a criminal record, this program offers youth aged 16 to 18 the opportunity to explore education and career options.
“Los Angeles County Probation is proud to partner with our county colleagues to create educational pathways for youth,” said Chief Probation Officer Viera-Rosa. “This program gives them access to higher education, opening doors to more opportunities and career paths, while laying the groundwork for successful and productive futures.”
District Attorney George Gascón added, “The CCPP provides a transformative alternative for youth accused of a crime. Rather than dealing with a criminal record, these young individuals will have the opportunity to pursue education and career goals, equipping them with the tools needed to build a brighter future. My office is dedicated to addressing the root causes of crime and breaking the cycle that often traps our youth in the justice system.”
“This program reflects the Los Angeles Community College District’s commitment to serving every member of our community, regardless of the challenges they’ve faced,” said Sara Hernandez, 2nd Vice President of the Los Angeles Community College Board of Trustees. “By providing an educational pathway at all nine of our colleges, we are creating a system of support that reaches beyond the classroom, offering young people the chance to become educated, employable, and empowered members of society.”
The college pathway program allows youth to work toward a college certificate or degree as an alternative to a criminal record. The Los Angeles County Probation Department, in conjunction with the District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, and Superior Court, will evaluate each case to determine eligibility based on factors such as the nature of the offense, gang affiliations, and the potential benefits of support services and a new educational environment. Once selected, participants will be placed in one of nine community college programs, where they will be required to attend and complete coursework. Charges against them will be suspended while they actively participate, and upon successful completion, they may qualify for case dismissal.
In addition to their education, participants will receive career counseling, access to support services, financial aid, tutoring, and the opportunity to join student clubs.
Chief Probation Officer Guillermo Viera-Rosa’s Statement on Board of Supervisors Motion to Appoint a Compliance Officer
LOS ANGELES — Following the motion by the Board of Supervisors to appoint a compliance officer tasked with ensuring adherence to the standards set by the Board of State and Community Corrections or BSCC and the California Department of Justice or DOJ at the juvenile halls of the Los Angeles County Probation Department, Chief Guillermo Viera-Rosa Oct. 24 issued the following statement:
“The Probation Department supports the Board of Supervisors’ decision. Our foremost priority is the safety and well-being of the youth in our care, and we are fully committed to meeting the compliance requirements of BSCC and DOJ.”
“We appreciate the Board’s leadership in this matter and their ongoing support of our efforts toward continuous improvement. Our goal is to transform our juvenile facilities into safe, healthy, and rehabilitative spaces for the youth we serve, and we are determined to not only meet but exceed the standards set by the BSCC and DOJ.”