Lawsuit Information Center
This page will look at sex abuse lawsuits involving juvenile inmates at Los Priestos Boys Camp in Santa Barbara County. Los Priestos was a juvenile rehabilitation camp for male offenders that was recently shut down. Juveniles who were sexually abused or assaulted by staff members at Los Priestos can bring civil lawsuits against Santa Barbara County and get financial settlements.
If you have a potential sex abuse lawsuit involving Los Priestos Boys Camp for juveniles, call our California sex abuse lawyers, today at 800-553-8082 or get a free online consultation.
About Los Priestos Boys Camp
Los Priestos Boys Camp was a juvenile rehabilitation camp located in the Los Padres National Forest. Los Priestos was operated by the Santa Barabara Department of Probation (SBPD) and it housed male offenders between the ages of 14 and 18. Los Priestos was a less harsh and lower security alternative to the traditional juvenile detention center facility in Santa Maria.
At its peak, the Los Priestos Boys Camp accommodated around 30 juvenile detainees. More recently, however, Los Priestos had fewer than 10 detainees at time. The reduction was primarily the result of a massive policy shift in California with respect to juvenile justice and detention. Over the last decade, the state has shifted away from sentencing juvenile offenders to detention in favor of community based rehabilitation programs.
Lost Priestos Boys Camp first opened back in 1944 and it was in continuous operation for nearly 8 decades. During that time, over 1,000 juvenile offenders “graduated” from the Lost Priestos program and many more were residents at the camp. The Los Priestos Boys Camp was permanently closed at the end of 2024 due to operational costs and a reduction in the number of juvenile inmates at the facility.
Sexual Abuse of Juveniles at Los Priestos Boys Camp
California has a deeply troubling history of physical and sexual abuse within its juvenile detention facilities. This longstanding issue has been repeatedly exposed through high-profile lawsuits, criminal charges, and extensive investigations by both state and federal authorities. Los Priestos, a county-operated juvenile facility, was no exception, suffering from the same neglect and systemic abuse that plagued the broader state juvenile system.
Tragically, juvenile inmates at facilities like Los Priestos were often subjected to sexual abuse by the very staff entrusted with their care. Such abuse occurred with alarming frequency, particularly in remote, rural facilities where oversight was more challenging. Investigations by federal and state authorities, along with lawsuits and news reports, have consistently uncovered the widespread and pervasive nature of this misconduct.
What Qualifies as Sexual Abuse?
In California, sexual assault or abuse is defined as any sexual touching or contact performed without the other person’s consent and for the purpose of sexual gratification. In civil lawsuits, these offenses are often categorized as sexual battery. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of acts, from unwanted groping to violent rape.
Two key elements must be present for an act to qualify as sexual abuse under California law. First, the contact must be intentional and motivated by sexual gratification. For example, accidentally brushing against someone in a crowded elevator or catching someone from falling does not constitute sexual abuse, as there is no sexual intent behind the contact.
The second essential element is the absence of consent. Any intentional sexual touching without mutual consent is considered abuse or assault. Additionally, under California law, minors under the age of 18 cannot legally give consent to sexual contact. As a result, any sexual contact between an adult and a minor is automatically classified as sexual battery.
Lawsuits for Sexual Abuse of Juveniles at Los Priestos Boys Camp
Lost Priestos Boys Camp operated as a county-level juvenile facility under the jurisdiction of the Santa Barbara County Probation Department (SBPD), which was responsible for overseeing all aspects of its operations. This included the screening, hiring, training, and supervision of correctional officers and staff. As the supervising authority, SBPD had a legal duty to ensure the safety, care, and custody of the juveniles housed at the facility.
SBPD may be held liable for sexual abuse at Los Priestos if it was aware of the problem but failed to take reasonable steps to protect inmates. To establish liability, a victim would need to demonstrate a direct connection between their abuse and SBPD’s negligence. This could include specific failures, such as ignoring prior complaints against known abusers, or systemic issues like inadequate policies and poor staff oversight.
Deadline to File a Lawsuit for Los Priestos Boys Camp Sex Abuse
If you or someone you know experienced sexual abuse at a California juvenile detention center, such as Los Priestos Boys Camp, it is crucial to understand the legal timeframes for seeking justice. While California has recently expanded legal protections for survivors, some claims may still be time-barred.
For Abuse Occurring On or After January 1, 2024
California law now allows survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file civil lawsuits at any time—there is no statute of limitations. No matter how much time has passed since the abuse, you retain the right to pursue legal action.
For Abuse Occurring Before January 1, 2024
The previous statute of limitations still applies. Survivors have until their 40th birthday or five years from the date they discovered the impact of the abuse on their lives—whichever is later—to file a lawsuit. If this deadline has already passed, the opportunity to file a civil sex abuse lawsuit may no longer be available.
Settlement Value of Los Priestos Boys Camp Sex Abuse Lawsuits
When determining settlement amounts and jury verdicts in California sexual abuse lawsuits, numerous factors come into play. However, several key considerations consistently influence the final compensation awarded to survivors.
Severity of the Abuse and Resulting Harm
The most significant factor in sexual abuse settlements is the severity and duration of the abuse. Cases involving prolonged abuse, multiple incidents, or physical injuries typically result in higher compensation. Psychological harm—such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression—also plays a crucial role in determining damages. Juries are more likely to award substantial compensation when medical and psychological experts provide evidence of long-term trauma.
Age of the Victim
Younger victims often receive higher settlement payouts due to their heightened vulnerability and the lasting impact of trauma. Courts also take into account whether the abuser held a position of authority—such as a teacher, coach, or clergy member—which can increase liability and lead to punitive damages.
Strength of the Evidence
In many sex abuse cases, the victim’s testimony alone is sufficient to bring a successful claim. However, having additional evidence—such as witness statements, medical records, or prior complaints against the abuser—can significantly strengthen a case and increase the potential settlement value.
Contact Us About Los Priestos Boys Camp Sex Abuse Cases
If you were sexually abused as an inmate at Los Priestos Boys Camp, you may be able to file a lawsuit and get compensation. Reach out to us online or call 800-553-8082.