A rapid response report by Million Dollar Hoods and journalist Cerise Castle, “How Much Does a Dollar Cost?”: An Analysis of LASD Deputy Gangs and County Settlements (1990-2021), released in collaboration with community partner Justice LA Coalition, addresses this critical question as the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors considers a motion to develop policy that identifies deputy gangs, ensures accountability, and reduces risk for the county.
Key findings include a documented $70.7 million in settlements and judgments related to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputy gangs paid between 1990 and 2021. Researchers also found an additional $83.9 million in cases from the same time period where gang involvement is unclear and requires further investigation. These findings update a prior analysis by the Inspector General, which found $54.9 million in settlements and judgments related to deputy gangs paid between 1990 and 2018.
The findings make clear the significant financial burden being passed on to taxpayers. Even more than the monetary costs, the report underscores the devastating human costs to victims, families, and communities and calls on Los Angeles County to fulfill its responsibility to eliminate deputy gangs.