Los Angeles County has negotiated a monumental $4 billion settlement to address over 6,800 sexual abuse claims involving its juvenile detention and foster care systems, marking the largest financial payout of its kind in U.S. history. Announced on Friday, this agreement reflects the county's effort to provide reparations to thousands of victims who suffered abuse dating back to 1959, with a majority of claims stemming from abuse that occurred during the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s.

The settlement is particularly significant as it follows a five-year-old state law in California that expanded the possibilities for childhood sexual abuse lawsuits against public entities, allowing many survivors to seek justice. This landmark case involves allegations of abuse at various county-run facilities, notably the MacLaren Children’s Center, which closed in 2003 amid serious allegations of mistreatment. The center was intended as a safe haven for children awaiting foster care but became infamous for severe abuses, including sexual assault by staff members.

Fesia Davenport, the county's chief executive officer, extended a formal apology on behalf of Los Angeles County, stating, “The historic scope of this settlement makes clear that we are committed to helping the survivors recover and rebuild their lives.”

Approval from the LA County Board of Supervisors and the county’s claims board is pending, with discussions slated to begin shortly. The funding for this extensive payout will necessitate significant annual payments through fiscal year 2050-51, impacting the county's budget which currently stands at approximately $49 billion.

This settlement surpasses prior significant payouts, including the $2.6 billion settlement with the Boy Scouts of America, aiming to address the grievances of over 80,000 individuals who reported similar abuses in scouting programs.

The county's plan includes establishing a hotline for reporting allegations of abuse and enhancing the processes for investigating claims, demonstrating a commitment to reform and the prevention of future incidents.