The most serious findings in the state inspection reports we hold: deaths, sexual and physical abuse, restraints that injured a child, suicide attempts, medical neglect and hospitalisations. Every quote below is the licensing agency's own wording, and each one was read against its report by a person before it was listed here.
[Staff 1] was unable to be interviewed due to whereabouts unknown at this time. On July 22, 2022, the Department received a complaint that alleged staff placed minor in (Continued) (Continued) a choke hold.
From the state's report. Substantiated. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
In plain words: A staff member grabbed a child in the program’s lower neck near the shoulder and hit the child with keys, causing a scratch. The child saw the scratch but did not report being handled or hit. The state licensing agency found the allegations substantiated. Our summary of the state's report. The state's own wording follows.
On July 7, 2022, Community Care Licensing (CCL) received a complaint alleging that a staff handled a minor in a rough manner and minor sustained injury while in care. Regarding a staff handled a client in a rough manner allegation, it was specified that Staff #1 grabbed Client #1 in Client #1's lower neck near the shoulder area. [...] It was also stated that [Staff 1] hit [Child 1] with [Staff 1]'s keys. [...] The same interview reported [Staff 1] hit [Child 1] with her keys on [Child 1]'s body. [...] Administrator stated [Child 1] did not report being handled or hit by [Staff 1] but did observe the scratch on [Child 1]'s body. [...] Based on confidential interviews, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore, the allegations that Staff #1 handled Client #1 in a rough manner and that Client #1 sustained an injury while in care are SUBSTANTIATED.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(11). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
On 12/20/2022, the Administrator reported an attempted suicide at the facility by [Child 1]. [...] FM Dewalt called 911 as the Administrator Losh and Staff Scholes started CPR. [Child 1] was transported to Saint Joseph's hospital in Stockton then Life-flighted to Oakland Children's Hospital. [...] [Child 1] was pronounced deceased on 12/22/22 at 10:30 pm. [...] The cause of death was listed as suicide by hanging.
From the state's report. Deficiency cited at inspection. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Under Health and Safety Code section 1548(f)(1)(C)(ii), a violation that the Department determines results in physical abuse as defined in section 1548(f)(2) to a child receiving care through a STRTP, there shall be a civil penalty of $2500.00. Under H&S 1548, "physical abuse" includes neglect as defined in 11165.2 of the Penal Code, when the person responsible for the child's welfare is a licensee, administrator, or employee of any facility licensed to care for children. A copy of this report, the Confidential Names Form, Appeal Rights, and the signed LIC 421-D (CRP) Civil Penalty Assessment - Death / Serious Bodily Injury / Physical Abuse were provided to the facility representative.
From the state's report. Deficiency cited at inspection.
Based on the documentary evidence, interviews, and statements obtained during the investigation process, LPA was able to corroborate the allegations, Staff member handled minor in a rough manner and Staff member used inappropriate language toward minor. Although Client #1 threw the remote control at the television because staff threw away [Child 1]'s cereal, confidential interviews, consistent statements, and documentary evidence revealed [Staff 1] grabbed [Child 1] by their neck and pushed [Child 1] to the floor.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c)(11). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
The following report was discussed: This Department investigated an allegation that Staff inappropriately touched youth in care.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c)(11).
Both clients who had assaultive incidents with [Staff 1] confirmed the [Staff 1] had assaulted each of them on separate occasions.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 86172(b)(2). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
On 04/04/2022, the San Jose Children's Residential Program Regional Office received a complaint for Newport Academy Paloma with three allegations: (1) Staff do not provide a safe and healthful environment for residents in care; (2) Inappropriate touching by one residents toward residents; and (3) Inappropriate sexual language used by one resident toward residents.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 84072(d)(11), 80078(a).
On 06/02/22, Community Care Licensing (CCL) received a complaint alleging client #1 is sexually abusing other clients. [...] The allegation [Child 1] is sexually abusing other clients is substantiated at this time.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 80078(a). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Confidential interviews reported that [Staff 1] admitted using the word prostitution towards [Child 1] instead of the trauma inform approach Commercial Sexual Exploitation Children (CSEC) during a meeting with County Social Worker.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 84072(d)(10). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
On March 24, 2022, Community Care Licensing received information alleging that Staff #1 (see LIC811 dated 03/14/2023) pushed minor #2 (see LIC811 dated 03/14/2023) while in care. Confidential interviews with two staff revealed that the minor was pushed by the staff while multiple witnesses were present. [...] Confidential interviews confirm that the staff member #S1 did push the minor in care. [...] Based on interviews and information gathered during the investigation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met and the Department has determined the allegation that the staff #1 pushed the minor #2 while in care is substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences.
Based on confidential interviews by (IB), ([Staff 1]) (see LIC 811 confidential names dated 9-27-22) sexually assaulted ([Child 3]) on three separate occasions, that occurred in a location outside of the facility. Based on the information obtained, there is a preponderance of the evidence to prove that staff had a sexual relationship with a foster child.
From the state's report. Substantiated. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
([Child 1]) was upset with ([Staff 1]) and threatened ([Staff 1]) and started hitting the staff member, which resulted in ([Staff 1]) stabbing ([Child 1]) in the left abdomen. The facility contacted the authorities, and ([Child 1]) was transported to the hospital by ambulance.
From the state's report. Substantiated. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
It was also reported that [Staff 1] pushed [Child 1] against the wall during the incident out of anger. Confidential witness statements revealed that [Staff 1] did push [Child 1] against the wall. Based on confidential interviews and records reviewed, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met regarding the allegation that [Staff 1] pushed [Child 1] while in care, therefore the allegation is found to be substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated (one of several allegations). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
On 8/31/ 21, CCLD received an allegation reporting that on 08/29/21, [Staff 1] physically restrained [Child 1] causing injuries to [Child 1]'s neck area and possible rib fracture. Licensing Program Analyst (LPA), Regina Martin investigated the complaint allegation and based on information obtained, the preponderance of the evidence standard has been met, the allegation of physical abuse was substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated (one of several allegations). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
One staff ([Staff 2]) witnessed another staff ([Staff 1]) inappropriately touch a youth in care on two occasions between May and June 2022. [...] Additional interviews corroborated [Staff 1] exhibited inappropriate sexualized behavior toward staff at the facility and at facilities where [Staff 1] was previously employed.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c)(11). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Page The Department received a complaint alleging a client was injured during an altercation with staff and staff restrained a minor. [...] In addition to the above information, the investigation revealed staff admitted to law enforcement that a client was restrained during the incident and informed a placing agency investigator the restraint took place on the floor. [...] Record review and confidential interviews corroborated a client sustained an injury to his cheek after being restrained in a prone position.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c)(11). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences.
Once on the ground [Staff 1] is on top position restraining [Child 1], [Staff 1] places his left arm around [Child 1]'s neck in a choke hold position and restrains [Child 1] from moving for a few seconds. [...] [Staff 1] releases [Child 1], walks a few steps backwards, [Child 1] gets up and walks towards [Staff 1], [Staff 1] punches [Child 1] in the face with his right hand with a closed fist.
From the state's report. Substantiated. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
[Staff 3] contacted non-emergency numbers and Oxnard Police Department. [...] At 6:30pm Oxnard Police Department arrived and detained minor [Child 1]. Oxnard Police Department notified [Staff 2], [Staff 3] that [Child 1] would be placed on a 72-hr hold/5150 at St. John's Regional Medical Center stating he was threatening the staff, children and destroying property. Based on witness, and video footage [Staff 2] conducted inappropriate restrain hold to [Child 1] to prevent from harming himself and others.
From the state's report. Substantiated. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Staff interviews reveal that staff handled client in a rough manner while performing a one-man restraint causing the client injuries.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(d)(11).
Confidential interviews, documentary evidence of Special Incident Report (SIR) 788640, and LPA review of video footage of the incident revealed that cleint was improperly restrained and placed in a choke hold..
From the state's report. Substantiated.
LPA confirmed through confidential interviews and incident reports that a staff person engaged in intentional physical contact with youth by pushing or hitting youth with a laptop computer. [...] Title 22 deficiencies were cited regarding the physical abuse.
From the state's report. Substantiated. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences.
On May 17, 2022, Community Care Licensing (CCL) received an allegation lack of supervision resulted in foster child (Child #1) being sexually abused. [...] Confidential interviews provided consistent statements of sexual acts taking place in the resident's rooms at night when staff were busy performing other duties. [...] Based on confidential interviews and record review the allegation lack of supervision resulted in foster child (Child #1) being sexually abused is substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 80078(a). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Three clients reported a staff member solicited nude photos from one client who was Absent Without Leave (AWOL) from the facility. [...] In addition to soliciting nude photos, the clients reported the staff member allowed the clients to use the staff member's cell phone to access social media, which went against facility policy. The staff member also visited a client while the client was AWOL, brought the client food, and took the client to the staff member's home.
From the state's report. Substantiated. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences.
On page 346 it states, "The restraints must not cause injury to the child." LPA Diaz was able to identify five nail marks on client's right forearm.
From the state's report. Substantiated.
The preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the allegation [Staff 1] pushed [Child 1] is found to be Substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(d)(10). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
The preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegations, staff engaged in sexual interactions with client in care and staff made several inappropriate comments to client in care are found to be SUBSTANTIATED.
From the state's report. Substantiated.
On 08/31/2022, Community Care Licensing (CCL) received an allegation that [Child 1] was injured by staff due to excessive restraint. It was reported that [Staff 1] restrained [Child 1], when [Child 1] attempted to leave the facility and pushed and tussled with [Child 1], resulting in bruises on [Child 1]'s legs. [...] Based on confidential interviews and a review of the gym video footage, the allegation that [Child 1] was injured by staff due to excessive restraint is substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 84072(d)(11). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
On December 8, 2021, Community Care Licensing (CCL) received a complaint alleging neglect/lack of supervision as Youth #1 was reportedly sexually assaulted by another youth resident while in care (see LIC811, dated October 11, 2022). [...] On October 28, 2020, LAPD responded to Adolescent Growth, Inc. concerning an alleged sexual assault between [Youth 1] and Youth #2 reportedly occurring on October 27, 2020, for which [Youth 2] was subsequently arrested.
From the state's report. Substantiated. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Based on confidential interviews and record review, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, and the allegations that staff ([Staff 2]) hit minor ([Child 1]) while in care and staff ([Staff 2]) is engaging in inappropriate behavior are substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated (one of several allegations). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Although the youth in the complaint is unable to corroborate the allegation, five interviews do corroborate that a minor was hit by staff while in care at the facility.
From the state's report. Substantiated.
During investigation, confidential interviews, police reports, and physical evidence were obtained, it was determined that a staff sexually abused client in care. Therefore, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation, Staff sexually abused client in care is found to be SUBSTANTIATED.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 84072(d)(11).
A report obtained by law enforcement reflects that BOD and the minor sustained bodily injuries due to an unauthorized restraint initiated by BOD.
From the state's report. Substantiated.
While the interviews had inconsistencies, video camera footage indicated the staff member did grab the arm of a client with unnecessary force.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 84072(d)(11).
It was also confirmed that staff slapped client in the face. Based on LPA's interview with Administrator and record review(s), the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegations, Staff inappropriately restrained a minor while in care and Staff slapped a minor while in care is found to be SUBSTANTIATED.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 80072(a)(3), 87095(a)(1)(5).
In plain words: A staff member sexually abused a child in the facility on May 12, 2022. The state investigation concluded the allegation was substantiated and cited the facility for violating the child's personal rights. Our summary of the state's report. The state's own wording follows.
The allegation that staff sexually abused a minor while in care is related to an incident that took place at the facility on 5/12/2022 involving [Staff 1] and [Child 1] (see LIC811 dated 8/26/22). [...] Based on information obtained and interviews conducted by the Investigations Branch, the allegation that a staff sexually abused a minor while in care is SUBSTANTIATED meaning the "preponderance of the evidence" standard has been met. The facility is being cited for Personal Rights section 87072(c)(11) as the licensee shall ensure that each child is accorded the personal rights specified in Welfare and Institutions Code Section 16001.9, including the right to be free of physical, sexual, emotional, or other abuse as it pertains to [Staff 1] engaging in a sexual relationship with a client while in the facility.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c)(11). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
(Continued on page LIC9099-C) The investigation revealed on February 7, 2022, several non-resident female juveniles were able to enter the facility and physically assault [Child 1]. [...] The Department has determined a lack of supervision contributed to the physical assault by juvenile non-residents on [Child 1].
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87078(a)(b). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Specifically, it was reported [Staff 1] made inappropriate sexual comments to [Child 1] on at least two occasions.
From the state's report. Substantiated. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
It was reported to Community Care Licensing (CCL) that staff #1 threw an object at [Child 1] and [Staff 1] mishandled [Child 1] with an inappropriate restraint. [...] Confidential staff interviews reported that [Staff 1] then threw a plastic bottle of soda at [Child 1]. [...] The preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the allegations that [Staff 1] threw an object at [Child 1] and [Staff 1] mishandled [Child 1] with an inappropriate restraint is found to be Substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
LPA Diaz asked for medical documentation and further information regarding to [Child 1]'s death. At this time LPA Diaz was informed that the incident continues to be under investigation with the Sheriff Department. [...] At the time of this report, the cause of death had not yet been determined.
From the state's report. Deficiency cited at inspection. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Documentary evidence revealed that Staff #1 caused an injury to Client #1 in the form of a red handprint on [Child 1]'s back which is consistent with statements that [Staff 1] "slapped" [Child 1] on the back.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c)(11). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Investigator Barajas conducted the investigation in conjunction with El Dorado County Sheriff Department. Investigation with the Department showed that [Staff 1] (see LIC811 dated 7/15/22) and [Child 1] engaged in a sexual relationship, including oral sex and sexual intercourse, while [Child 1] was residing in the facility and continued after [Child 1] left the program. The sexual relationship began while [Child 1] was under the age of 18. Investigator Barajas and El Dorado County Sheriff also conducted additional interviews with two additional clients of the facility ([Child 2] and [Child 3]) who disclosed that they exchanged nude photos with [Staff 1] and that [Staff 1] made sexually explicit statements to them, including wanting to meet up with the youth and have sexual relations with the youth.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(c)(11). The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Community Care Licensing received information on November 01, 2021 alleging that Facility Staff handled child in a rough manner, more specifically that Staff # 1 ([Staff 1]) had kicked Child # 1 ([Child 1]). [...] According to confidential information, [Staff 1] was observed to have pulled and kicked [Child 1] during an incident which occurred inside [Child 1]'s cottage on surveillance video. LPA Mena was shown surveillance video where [Staff 1] is observed kicking [Child 1] near the exit door while [Child 1] was laying on the ground. [...] Based on interviews and information gathered during the investigation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met and the Department has determined the allegation that Facility Staff handled child in a rough manner, more specifically that Staff # 1 ([Staff 1]) had kicked Child # 1 ([Child 1]) is substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(d)(11). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
Confidential interviews reported that the incident involved [Staff 1] not letting [Child 1] keep a slime and [Staff 1] ended up dragging [Child 1] and putting [Child 1] in restraint that was not appropriate.
From the state's report. Substantiated. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
The records and the interviews indicated that a staff member did choke the minor through the improper use of a manual restraint.
From the state's report. Substantiated.
During the investigation of staff physically abused minor, staff verbally abused minor, staff threatened minor and staff broke minor's toy.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 84072(d)(11).
The Department received a complaint on December 17, 2021, that staff #1 physically abused [Child 1] while in care. [...] Additional confidential interviews revealed that [Staff 1] had kicked [Child 3]. [...] Confidential interviews indicate that [Staff 1] did not push [Child 2].***CONTINUED on LIC C***** Additional confidential interviews revealed that [Staff 1] did not kick [Child 3]. Based on confidential interviews that staff #1 physically abused [Child 1] while in care is Substantiated as the preponderance of evidence standard has been met for the allegation.
From the state's report. Substantiated. Cited: 87072(11). "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
On 02/24/2022, the Department received an allegation that a minor was sexually abused while in care. It was reported that staff #1 walked client #1 to the shower and raped [Child 1]. [...] Confidential interviews stated [Staff 1] had sexual intercourse with [Child 1] and charges will be filed against [Staff 1]. Based on confidential interviews, the allegation that [Child 1] was sexually abused while in care is substantiated.
From the state's report. Substantiated. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
In plain words: An investigation found the facility failed to properly supervise young people, leading to emergency hospital care for two clients. The state issued a civil penalty for physical abuse resulting in serious injury. Our summary of the state's report. The state's own wording follows.
The complaint, which was conducted by CCL Investigations Branch, alleged that the facility failed to properly supervise clients resulting in emergency attention and hospitalization for two clients. [...] The Department determined issuance of Civil Penalty per Health and Safety Code 1548 (f)(C)(i) For a violation that the department determines constitutes physical abuse, as defined in paragraph (2), or resulted in serious bodily injury, as defined in Section 243 of the Penal Code, to a person receiving care at, but not limited to, short-term residential therapeutic program. [...] A copy of this report, Confidential Names Form, Appeal Rights, and form UC 421-D(CRP) for a Civil Penalty Assessment- Death/ Serious Bodily Injury/ Physical Abuse were provided to Facility Representative.
From the state's report. Deficiency cited at inspection. "[...]" marks text left out between sentences.
Records revealed that [Staff 2] was terminated for allowing [Child 1] to use [Staff 2]'s work phone on more than one occasion resulting in [Child 1] engaging in an inappropriate relationship with an adult male.
From the state's report. Substantiated. The state numbers or abbreviates the people in a report instead of naming them; we spell its codes out in square brackets, such as [Staff 1] for S1 or [Former client 3] for FC #3.
A program reads every inspection report we collect and picks out findings that describe serious harm, using the state's own severity rating or complaint outcome where there is one. A person then reads the report and approves or rejects each one. Only findings the state substantiated are listed: a citation, or a complaint the investigator upheld. A child running away is listed only when it ended in a death or a serious injury. This page is not complete: it covers the states and reports reviewed so far, and a facility's absence here says nothing about its record. Every report we hold, flagged or not, is on the state trackers.