Los Angeles, CA, January 10, 2026
Inmates at the Century Regional Detention Facility in Lynwood have filed a federal lawsuit against the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, claiming deputies engaged in voyeurism by observing them while showering. The lawsuit raises serious concerns about systemic misconduct within the LASD, particularly regarding a designated area known as the ‘cop shop’ that allows male officers an unobstructed view of female inmates during showers. This lawsuit amplifies ongoing scrutiny of the department’s accountability and treatment of individuals in custody.
Los Angeles Inmates Allege Deputies Engage in Shower Voyeurism
Inmates file federal lawsuit against LASD for alleged misconduct
Los Angeles, CA – In a significant legal move, inmates at the Century Regional Detention Facility (CRDF) in Lynwood have filed a federal lawsuit accusing members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) of engaging in voyeuristic behavior by observing them while showering. This lawsuit names not only Los Angeles County and its sheriff’s department but also various LASD officials as defendants.
The allegations come from a group of 38 inmates, including lead plaintiff Dawn Thalacher. They assert that deputies routinely monitored them during showers across different modules of the facility, including the general population and administrative segregation area. The lawsuit highlights a particular location known as the “cop shop,” which allows male officers an unobstructed view of female inmates, raising serious questions about the conduct of those tasked with overseeing individuals in custody.
Allegations of Systemic Misconduct
The startling claims detail a pattern of behavior that suggests systemic issues within the department. The “cop shop” reportedly facilitates a direct line of sight into the showers, effectively allowing male officers to watch female inmates in a vulnerable state. The lawsuit raises troubling concerns about the implications of such conduct and the potential for abuse of power within the LASD, which is already under scrutiny due to past misconduct allegations.
LASD’s Response and Policy Measures
In response to the lawsuit, the LASD has stated that it treats allegations of sexual misconduct with the utmost seriousness. The department has reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy towards abuse and harassment, explaining that nine cases related to the Prison Rape Elimination Act are currently under investigation. Furthermore, the LASD has implemented mandatory education programs designed to foster awareness and encourage reporting of such incidents without fear of retaliation from within the system.
Historical Context of Allegations Against LASD
This latest lawsuit is not an isolated incident. The LASD has faced significant scrutiny in the past due to allegations of misconduct. Notably, in 2013, criminal charges were brought against 18 deputies for offenses ranging from unjustified violence toward inmates to interference in federal investigations. The department’s struggle with misconduct has raised broader concerns about accountability and the overall culture within the LASD.
Recent Developments: Body-Worn Cameras
In a move aimed at enhancing transparency, the LASD began equipping deputies with body-worn cameras in October 2025. This initiative is designed to bolster accountability and address the concerns of misconduct raised by various stakeholders, including community members and advocacy groups. By improving oversight of inmate interactions, these cameras may serve as an important tool in restoring trust between law enforcement and the public.
Conclusion
The federal lawsuit filed by inmates at the CRDF highlights ongoing issues within the LASD regarding allegations of misconduct and abuse of power. As the department responds to these serious claims and implements new measures for accountability, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals in custody. As a community, staying engaged with such developments is crucial for fostering a safer environment and supporting meaningful reform efforts in Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the main allegations in the lawsuit filed by inmates at the Century Regional Detention Facility?
The lawsuit alleges that LASD deputies observed inmates showering for the purpose of male correctional officers’ “voyeuristic sexual gratification.” It describes a designated area adjacent to the shower stalls, referred to as the “cop shop,” which provides an unobstructed view of the entire bodies of female inmates, allowing male officers to make eye contact with showering inmates.
How has the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to these allegations?
The LASD stated that it takes all claims of sexual misconduct, abuse of authority, and violations of department policy seriously. The department emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward sexual abuse or harassment within its facilities and mentioned that nine cases under the Prison Rape Elimination Act have been referred to the Internal Affairs Bureau or Internal Criminal Investigations Bureau, with investigations ongoing. The LASD also highlighted its mandatory education and awareness program to ensure zero tolerance for sexual abuse and sexual harassment, along with clear protocols for reporting incidents confidentially and without fear of retaliation.
What is the “cop shop” mentioned in the lawsuit?
The “cop shop” is a designated area adjacent to the shower stalls in the administrative segregation module of the CRDF. This area provides an unobstructed view of the entire bodies of female inmates, allowing male officers to make eye contact with showering inmates.
Has the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department faced similar allegations in the past?
Yes, in 2013, 18 current and former deputies were charged with federal crimes, including unjustified beatings of jail inmates and visitors, unjustified detentions, and obstruction of a federal investigation into misconduct at the Men’s Central Jail. Additionally, in 2014, six deputies were sentenced to federal prison for obstructing a federal civil rights investigation into misconduct at the Men’s Central Jail. These incidents have raised concerns about systemic issues within the department.
What measures has the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department implemented to address misconduct concerns?
In October 2025, the LASD began equipping deputies in jails with body-worn cameras to enhance transparency and accountability within the facilities. This initiative aims to address ongoing concerns about misconduct and improve oversight of jail operations.
Key Features of the Los Angeles Inmates’ Allegations
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Allegations | Deputies observed inmates showering for the purpose of male correctional officers’ “voyeuristic sexual gratification.” |
| Defendants | Los Angeles County, its sheriff’s department, and various LASD officials. |
| Facility Involved | Century Regional Detention Facility (CRDF) in Lynwood. |
| Designated Area | “Cop shop” – an area adjacent to the shower stalls providing an unobstructed view of showering inmates. |
| LASD’s Response | Emphasis on zero-tolerance policy toward sexual abuse or harassment, ongoing investigations, and implementation of body-worn cameras for enhanced transparency and accountability. |
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