Los Angeles County Grand Jury • 1971-1972

LOS Angeles County Grand Jury County of LOS Angelles KIN*

Published: July 27, 2015 160 pages Consolidated Report

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⚠️ Aviso de traducción: Este contenido ha sido traducido automáticamente. El texto original en inglés es la versión oficial. La traducción puede contener errores.

⚠️ Este contenido ha sido traducido automáticamente. El texto original en inglés es la versión oficial. La traducción puede contener errores.

Findings 11 findings

"Development of Community Day Center Program Objectives Utilizing Behavior Modification Principles and Techniques": USC and Crenshaw Area Probation Office. Unfortunately, no appropriate space has been approved by the Los Angeles County Real Estate Management Department for this program. The young people who might have had a concrete opportunity for redirection of attitude and behavior are being denied this opportunity. The children lose. Society loses. Law enforcement and the criminal justice system workload increase. The sense of urgency is not understood. The Committee urges the Real Estate Department to weigh the immediate cost of renovating the South Vermont Street location against the ultimate dollar costs of recidivism. We suggest that the adage "penny wise and pound foolish" applies. The Committee spent considerable time in observing the USC-CDC program, learn- ing about the principles of Behavior Modification (which include student response to stimulus as well as teacher response to situations) and listening to speakers. We concluded that such an approach was of sufficient magnitude in preparing one to become an effective teacher, that a recommendation be sent to Dr. Wilson Riles, State Superintendent of Instruction. We recommended that a course in Behavior Modification principles become a pre- requisite to credentialing. Several invitations were issued to Dr. Riles requesting an exchange of his ideas on this subject. We are still hoping to have this exchange. We have charged that the institutions are failing the young person. The young person who is failing in regular school - attitudinally and academically, will be as much a failure after going through the criminal justice system and perhaps even more so. His environment remains just as conducive to perpetuating the conditions which initially pushed him into the criminal system. In reality, the negative attitudes have been reinforced in these institutions. If any hope for another chance has managed to survive, it certainly is quickly killed when the youth is returned to his community. The attitudes on the part of both the school administrators and teachers, together with the lack of curriculum articulation, are discouraging factors. Written programs and policies may read well. The Committee noticed a discrepancy between the written word and the deed. Frequently people in responsible positions are rationalizing to the point of believeable deception. The recipients of those non- existing services remain unbelievers. The experts admit and recognize that the efforts expended and the programs devised for the purpose of redirecting the youth are ineffective. Yet, policy makers continue to spend money in the same proportions. In the September 13, 1972 edition of the Los Angeles Times, an article appeared regarding the cost of reform schools. Cali- fornia reported a figure of $7,000 annual costs per youth. Harvard currently lists a yearly cost of $5,395, including tuition, room and board and personal expenses. This fact, coupled with the high recidivism statistics, should be sufficient incentive to explore other avenues. The County of Los Angeles is spending 62 million dollars involving 5,000 positions in our protective care program; 16 million dollars with 787 positions for placement care and only 9 million dollars and 511 positions for delinquency prevention pro- grams. Everyone benefits more by spending the money in the areas which will keep most young people out of the criminal justice system. It would be wiser to convert our archaic system into a viable one - one which provides the full range of services that children need to become decent and law-abiding citizens. There should be a reallocation of funds. Monetary support should be placed in areas where there is a better chance for success. The youth should be given the opportunity to get a sound education - be given a fair chance not to be channeled into the criminal justice system. In a letter dated September 20, 1972, the Grand Jury requested the Board of Super- visors to direct the Chief Administrative Officer and the County Superintendent of Schools to convene a task force to investigate, specifically for this purpose, ways and areas of inter-agency, intra-community resources cooperation and coordination. (See for text of original communication.) On October 11, the Chairman unexpectedly had the opportunity to informally discuss with Supervisors Debs and Dorn the concept and the basis for this recom- mendation. They expressed support of the concept and urged Chief Administrative Officer Arthur G. Will to explore this matter more thoroughly. The following day, at a previously scheduled meeting, the Foreman and the Chairman met with CAO Arthur G. Will and Vincent Terry, Liaison official from the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. The results of that productive meeting were two-fold: The CAO will convene a meeting with County Superintendent of Schools

December) a meeting of a few identified school districts' administrators and related private/public agencies for the purpose of: (a) exploring ways of community implementation of the recommendations, and (b) exploring methods of greater cooperation and coordination. In 1970, Charles E. Silberman authored the book, "Crisis in the Classroom." This was the result of a three-year survey of public education in our country. In it he noted that the formal classroom environment in most schools is a detriment to education. The present system creates discipline problems rather than control. The report recommended that public education reorder itself along more informal lines, freeing the student to pursue his own interests. It further stated that this is possible within the present system if teachers and administrators receive adequate support and encouragement to make learning more individualized. This is only one of many books advocating similar changes. When the decrease in the population in probation camps (attributed to the State Subsidy Program), it appears to the Committee that individualized teaching is feas- ible, practical and absolutely essential. We recommend that this method be imple- mented immediately by incorporation of the concept of learning centers. We commend the attempts made by the County Superintendent of Schools to rectify an almost intolerable situation. The Superintendent established the Program Definition Committee consisting of dedicated personnel who recognize the student's needs. This Committee has made pertinent and realistic recommendations.2 These

Special Schools and the regular public schools. That better articulation of curricula between the Special Schools and

regular public schools be established. That every effort be expended by all concerned in assisting the youth

to make a more effective transition back into regular public school. That the Probation Department, the County Superintendent of

Schools and all school administrators immediately notify all personnel that those who cannot adjust to the commitment of helping to break the delinquency cycle will be counseled out of the system. That a policy be established by all concerned that in matters affecting

the juvenile that primary consideration be given to the best interests of the juvenile. Other considerations must be secondary. That the Board of Supervisors direct that a Task Force be formed

immediately to address itself to the assignment of creating the optimum climate for development of a sound educational environ- ment for children.

That a course in Behavior Modification principles be a prerequisite to credentialing.

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That the probation officers act as a teaching aides in Special Schools classes where needed.

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That the County Superintendent of Schools aggressively support and implement The Program Definition Committee's recommendations. Respectfully submitted, Marie Y. Shibuya, Chairman Beverly Logan, Secretary Bernice Lofton Walter Maier Ernest Paik George M. Peacock Murray H. Strasburg Charles R. Wheeler ADDENDUM TO THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE REPORT On November 13, 1972, the Chief Administrative Officer convened a meeting (pursuant to a Board directive, September 26) with the following in attendance: County Superintendent of Schools Richard Clowes Asst. Supt. Business and Financial Services Richard Horne Asst. Supt. Administration of School Operations Thomas Ross Chief Probation Officer Kenneth Kirkpatrick Director, Department of Health Services Liston Witherill Foreman, 1972 County Grand Jury Laurence T. Greiner Chairman, Education Committee Marie Shibuya Education Committee Bernice Lofton Education Committee Beverly Logan Education Committee Walter Maier Education Committee Ernest Paik Education Committee George M. Peacock Education Committee Murray H. Strasburg Education Committee Charles R. Wheeler Liaison, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer Vincent Terry The purpose of the meeting was to: (a) discuss the deficiencies in the County's educational system which were identified in the Grand Jury's report and (b) develop approaches to solutions to these problems. After a very fruitful discussion, it was determined that a working committee be formed. This committee would be composed of representatives from County Schools Office, Probation, Health Services, specific school districts within the County and the Chairman of the Education Committee. The charge to this committee is to seek ways in which to develop cooperative efforts to redirect the educational system (Probation facilities, Special Schools and regular public schools) so that meaningful inroads can be made into the juvenile problem. A report will be submitted to the Board of Supervisors within a month with sug- gested plans. - Comments - - PABLO A. CARTAGENA ROBERT G. METZNER EARLE Y. SULLIVAN MICHAEL J. DILLON LESLIE E. KELLY GLORIA L. EINSMANN GEORGE A. PECK, JR. MURRAY H. STRASBURG Chairman THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE REPORT ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE REPORT It is not only time for the romance between the American public and the motor car to be legitimized or at least controlled, it is possibly too late. Very soon that romance must develop into a suicide pact. At the present rate of increasing perform- ance of the majority of production cars and the increase in octane rating of regular gasoline from seventy to ninety-two during the past thirty years, soon all cars will have to be potential "Indy" winners just to compete on the market. Emissions and performance are in a direct relation; the higher the performance the higher the emissions. In urban areas the major, and the only uncontrolled, sources of air pollution are motor vehicles. Within this County, stationary sources of air pollution have been reduced to a very commendable minimum, these sources being under County control. The major pollutor, the motor vehicle, is slightly controlled by changing standards set at state and federal levels of government. Very commendable emission standards set for 1975 possibly may be achieved, but probably will be negated shortly there- after by the geometric increase in County population and the requirement for trans- porting that population. The solution to this problem will be disruptive to the economic picture and to personal preferences. It will be expensive and extremely difficult to achieve but must be undertaken immediately. It may already be too late. Previous Grand Juries have attacked the Los Angeles County Air Pollution Control District as the culprit in the smog problem. It is our feeling that they have missed the point. The APCD certainly does not produce smog, they merely monitor it. That portion of emissions over which they have authority is well under control. Previous attacks on the APCD have been annual, repetitive and extremely critical. They seem to have missed another point. The APCD and the Hearing Board are, from our observation, more interested in obtaining rapid compliance with their regulations (and are very successful in that aim) than in instituting long, expensive and sometimes fruitless legal proceedings. However, when the APCD had to resort to action by their Enforcement Branch, it has a magnificent conviction rate of over 97% in the more than 1200 cases prosecuted in 1971. Early this year, the Coalition for Clean Air quoted the recommendations of the 1971 Grand Jury as their main allegations against the APCD. These charges were referred to the State Air Resources Board. This Committee felt that further investi- gation of the APCD while the Air Resources Board Commission was hearing those charges would be unnecessary harassment. This Committee also feels that as of late October the Air Resources Board Commission is being extremely deliberate in arriv- ing at its final conclusions. This Committee has noted and commends the many steps toward a better environ- ment within the County, for instance, the City of Long Beach for, its continuing program of improvement of the water quality of the harbor, its positive approach to possible oil pollution from off-shore drilling sites, its use of reclaimed water from the Sanitation District and the conversion of its fleet vehicles to natural gas. We also commend the City of Los Angeles for the considerable improvement of water quality within its harbor area. The County also should be complimented for maintaining the purity of the waters within Marina del Rey. This Committee has been impressed by the expertise and competence of the higher level officials of the County and the City of Los Angeles in the Departments of Sanitation and Harbors. Los Angeles County seems to be doing very well in maintain- ing water quality with the exception of the difficulties at the Terminal Island Outfall. That condition will be corrected when facilities now under construction are com- pleted. The sanitation districts are under expert and competent direction. They have, under current legislation and appropriations, more funding than they can expend with present construction and labor restrictions. We believe that the APCD accomplishes more toward the goal of restricting emissions from stationary sources by encouraging compliance with their regulations (through the APCD Hearing Board) than they would be able to through court action. That they be given adequate funds to enlist public WE RECOMMEND: support by showing their record of accomplishment. The County of Los Angeles is particularly well endowed with academic institutions of note. Many have branches, departments, or separate facilities completely devoted to the study of environmental problems. That the County utilize these experts to the fullest WE RECOMMEND: extent possible, including grants of financial support for studies of County environmental problems. That the Board of Supervisors create the position of WE RECOMMEND: and appoint an Ombudsman for Environmental Matters, to: Advise the Board of Supervisors as to questions and companies from (a) the residents of the County (b) Act as a liaison among the Board, Department Chiefs and experts in their fields from various university or college faculties Be nominated by the Environmental Faculties of UCLA, USC and (c) Cal Tech. Final selection to be made by the Board of Supervisors from those nominees. It must be accepted that the major contributor to our smog problem is the internal combustion engine. In the foreseeable future no practical alternative to the over use of single passenger vehicles exists. WE URGENTLY RECOMMEND: That the Board of Supervisors take immediate action to implement a viable, expandable Mass Transit System not dependent on passenger revenues for its operation and expansion. Mass transit within fifteen years is mandatory for the County of Los Angeles. By that time population growth, even if restricted, will negate any reduction made possible by improved emission standards because the number of vehicles required to move the population will be increased. Any alternatives for control, i.e., gas rationing, enforced car pools, smog production taxes or exorbitant parking fees, would be extremely unpopular and probably unenforceable. Finally, That the Board of Supervisors initiate a study of WE RECOMMEND: the feasibility of concentrating all electric power plants (preferably atomic power plants) for the Southern California area on a suitable Channel Island. Such a location is beyond the active earthquake area and is remote enough to minimize the effects of any nuclear accident. Respectfully submitted, George A. Peck, Jr., Chairman William J. Braddock Pablo A. Cartagena Michael J. Dillon Gloria L. Einsmann Leslie E. Kelly Robert G. Metzner Murray H. Strasburg Earle Y. Sullivan and an owner of Section of the least and the same The second - The state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of t

Recommendations 19

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WHAT HAPPENS TO THE CHILD WHILE IN THE SYSTEM
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WHAT HAPPENS TO THE CHILD "GRADUATING" FROM THE
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SYSTEM It became apparent that both the schools and juvenile institutions are not meeting the needs of their clients. This situation can be improved by relatively simple changes These attainable recommendations will be described. RESEARCH The major part of the Committee's time was devoted to gathering pertinent research data. We visited all 12 of the juvenile facilities - some of them several times. We also visited Juvenile Court and three of its branch courts. In addition, Camp Fenner, Factor-Brookins, Incentive One, Los Compadres, Community Day Center programs, Family Treatment sessions, were visited. The Committee interviewed knowledgeable people in related fields as well as the detained students, potential detainees and "graduates" of the system. We visited Fred Nelles School for Boys (California Youth Authority) for comparison purposes. We listened to speakers, all experts in their fields. They ranged from those who spoke from their inside knowledge of the juvenile criminal courts system - judges, a deputy district attorney, a deputy public defender - to educators, probation personnel, students and advocates of students' rights. The Committee made an exhaustive study.
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regular public schools be established. That every effort be expended by all concerned in assisting the youth
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to make a more effective transition back into regular public school. That the Probation Department, the County Superintendent of
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Schools and all school administrators immediately notify all personnel that those who cannot adjust to the commitment of helping to break the delinquency cycle will be counseled out of the system. That a policy be established by all concerned that in matters affecting
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the juvenile that primary consideration be given to the best interests of the juvenile. Other considerations must be secondary. That the Board of Supervisors direct that a Task Force be formed
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immediately to address itself to the assignment of creating the optimum climate for development of a sound educational environ- ment for children.
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That a course in Behavior Modification principles be a prerequisite to credentialing.
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That the probation officers act as a teaching aides in Special Schools classes where needed.
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That the County Superintendent of Schools aggressively support and implement The Program Definition Committee's recommendations. Respectfully submitted, Marie Y. Shibuya, Chairman Beverly Logan, Secretary Bernice Lofton Walter Maier Ernest Paik George M. Peacock Murray H. Strasburg Charles R. Wheeler ADDENDUM TO THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE REPORT On November 13, 1972, the Chief Administrative Officer convened a meeting (pursuant to a Board directive, September 26) with the following in attendance: County Superintendent of Schools Richard Clowes Asst. Supt. Business and Financial Services Richard Horne Asst. Supt. Administration of School Operations Thomas Ross Chief Probation Officer Kenneth Kirkpatrick Director, Department of Health Services Liston Witherill Foreman, 1972 County Grand Jury Laurence T. Greiner Chairman, Education Committee Marie Shibuya Education Committee Bernice Lofton Education Committee Beverly Logan Education Committee Walter Maier Education Committee Ernest Paik Education Committee George M. Peacock Education Committee Murray H. Strasburg Education Committee Charles R. Wheeler Liaison, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer Vincent Terry The purpose of the meeting was to: (a) discuss the deficiencies in the County's educational system which were identified in the Grand Jury's report and (b) develop approaches to solutions to these problems. After a very fruitful discussion, it was determined that a working committee be formed. This committee would be composed of representatives from County Schools Office, Probation, Health Services, specific school districts within the County and the Chairman of the Education Committee. The charge to this committee is to seek ways in which to develop cooperative efforts to redirect the educational system (Probation facilities, Special Schools and regular public schools) so that meaningful inroads can be made into the juvenile problem. A report will be submitted to the Board of Supervisors within a month with sug- gested plans. - Comments - - PABLO A. CARTAGENA ROBERT G. METZNER EARLE Y. SULLIVAN MICHAEL J. DILLON LESLIE E. KELLY GLORIA L. EINSMANN GEORGE A. PECK, JR. MURRAY H. STRASBURG Chairman THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE REPORT ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE REPORT It is not only time for the romance between the American public and the motor car to be legitimized or at least controlled, it is possibly too late. Very soon that romance must develop into a suicide pact. At the present rate of increasing perform- ance of the majority of production cars and the increase in octane rating of regular gasoline from seventy to ninety-two during the past thirty years, soon all cars will have to be potential "Indy" winners just to compete on the market. Emissions and performance are in a direct relation; the higher the performance the higher the emissions. In urban areas the major, and the only uncontrolled, sources of air pollution are motor vehicles. Within this County, stationary sources of air pollution have been reduced to a very commendable minimum, these sources being under County control. The major pollutor, the motor vehicle, is slightly controlled by changing standards set at state and federal levels of government. Very commendable emission standards set for 1975 possibly may be achieved, but probably will be negated shortly there- after by the geometric increase in County population and the requirement for trans- porting that population. The solution to this problem will be disruptive to the economic picture and to personal preferences. It will be expensive and extremely difficult to achieve but must be undertaken immediately. It may already be too late. Previous Grand Juries have attacked the Los Angeles County Air Pollution Control District as the culprit in the smog problem. It is our feeling that they have missed the point. The APCD certainly does not produce smog, they merely monitor it. That portion of emissions over which they have authority is well under control. Previous attacks on the APCD have been annual, repetitive and extremely critical. They seem to have missed another point. The APCD and the Hearing Board are, from our observation, more interested in obtaining rapid compliance with their regulations (and are very successful in that aim) than in instituting long, expensive and sometimes fruitless legal proceedings. However, when the APCD had to resort to action by their Enforcement Branch, it has a magnificent conviction rate of over 97% in the more than 1200 cases prosecuted in 1971. Early this year, the Coalition for Clean Air quoted the recommendations of the 1971 Grand Jury as their main allegations against the APCD. These charges were referred to the State Air Resources Board. This Committee felt that further investi- gation of the APCD while the Air Resources Board Commission was hearing those charges would be unnecessary harassment. This Committee also feels that as of late October the Air Resources Board Commission is being extremely deliberate in arriv- ing at its final conclusions. This Committee has noted and commends the many steps toward a better environ- ment within the County, for instance, the City of Long Beach for, its continuing program of improvement of the water quality of the harbor, its positive approach to possible oil pollution from off-shore drilling sites, its use of reclaimed water from the Sanitation District and the conversion of its fleet vehicles to natural gas. We also commend the City of Los Angeles for the considerable improvement of water quality within its harbor area. The County also should be complimented for maintaining the purity of the waters within Marina del Rey. This Committee has been impressed by the expertise and competence of the higher level officials of the County and the City of Los Angeles in the Departments of Sanitation and Harbors. Los Angeles County seems to be doing very well in maintain- ing water quality with the exception of the difficulties at the Terminal Island Outfall. That condition will be corrected when facilities now under construction are com- pleted. The sanitation districts are under expert and competent direction. They have, under current legislation and appropriations, more funding than they can expend with present construction and labor restrictions. We believe that the APCD accomplishes more toward the goal of restricting emissions from stationary sources by encouraging compliance with their regulations (through the APCD Hearing Board) than they would be able to through court action. That they be given adequate funds to enlist public WE RECOMMEND: support by showing their record of accomplishment. The County of Los Angeles is particularly well endowed with academic institutions of note. Many have branches, departments, or separate facilities completely devoted to the study of environmental problems. That the County utilize these experts to the fullest WE RECOMMEND: extent possible, including grants of financial support for studies of County environmental problems. That the Board of Supervisors create the position of WE RECOMMEND: and appoint an Ombudsman for Environmental Matters, to: Advise the Board of Supervisors as to questions and companies from (a) the residents of the County (b) Act as a liaison among the Board, Department Chiefs and experts in their fields from various university or college faculties Be nominated by the Environmental Faculties of UCLA, USC and (c) Cal Tech. Final selection to be made by the Board of Supervisors from those nominees. It must be accepted that the major contributor to our smog problem is the internal combustion engine. In the foreseeable future no practical alternative to the over use of single passenger vehicles exists. WE URGENTLY RECOMMEND: That the Board of Supervisors take immediate action to implement a viable, expandable Mass Transit System not dependent on passenger revenues for its operation and expansion. Mass transit within fifteen years is mandatory for the County of Los Angeles. By that time population growth, even if restricted, will negate any reduction made possible by improved emission standards because the number of vehicles required to move the population will be increased. Any alternatives for control, i.e., gas rationing, enforced car pools, smog production taxes or exorbitant parking fees, would be extremely unpopular and probably unenforceable. Finally, That the Board of Supervisors initiate a study of WE RECOMMEND: the feasibility of concentrating all electric power plants (preferably atomic power plants) for the Southern California area on a suitable Channel Island. Such a location is beyond the active earthquake area and is remote enough to minimize the effects of any nuclear accident. Respectfully submitted, George A. Peck, Jr., Chairman William J. Braddock Pablo A. Cartagena Michael J. Dillon Gloria L. Einsmann Leslie E. Kelly Robert G. Metzner Murray H. Strasburg Earle Y. Sullivan and an owner of Section of the least and the same The second - The state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of the state of t
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That both civil and criminal powers be retained in one County Grand Jury. ( ). THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS:
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The use of the empty cells at Van Nuys jail for the weekender program. ( ).
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Constant reexamination and upgrading of existing programs and experimenta- tion with new, creative plans for rehabilitation outside the institutional setting. ( ).
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Requisition for portable pay phones in all jails. ( ).
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Signs in the booking area stating rules regarding phone calls. ( ).
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Thirty-minute checks of prisoners. ( ).
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Increased use of civilian personnel in jails. ( ).
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LAPD consider adding "Ride-Along" to their present programs. ( ). THE NARCOTICS AND DANGEROUS DRUGS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDS:

Conclusions 14

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High employee turnover, absenteeism, low morale and apparent lax super- vision resulting in inefficiencies and low productivity.
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A "suspense account" is maintained for payments, refused or returned warrants, misdirected payments, bad checks, lump sum payments received in advance and other items not clearable through the normal computer- maintained file system installed in July, 1971. On June 30, 1971, the detail balance of suspense items was about $250,000. It had increased to about $900,000 by June 30, 1972 and to almost $1,000,000 by August 31, 1972. This is roughly 4% of one year's total receipts. Although approximately $300,000 was added to the sus- pense account in July 1971 through the new computer system conversion there does not appear to be any justification for either the large balance in June, 1971 or the continuous increase in the suspense account balance since that time. This is especially significant since some of the payments received and not yet identified quite possible should have been paid to families with dependent children. As the result of the foregoing disclosures, the CAO was advised on Sep- tember 7, 1972, of the situation and was provided with a preliminary copy of the audit report. An urgent recommendation was made that a special Task Force be assigned the task of clearing the suspense account as soon as possible of all identifiable items and reducing the balance to a minimum level. The CAO accepted this recommendation but the Task Force did not begin work until the first week of October. On November 9, the Auditor- Controller reported that the suspense item balance was reduced to approxi- mately $700,000. We have been further advised that the suspense account will be reduced to a minimum level by about January 15, 1973. After that date it should include only items which will be cleared on a routine basis within a few days after the item is placed in suspense or cannot be cleared by legal requirements. As of June 30, 1972, there were on hand 6,651 documents received from
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DPSS which had been received but not processed – an increase of about 6,000 over the unprocessed backlog in May, 1971. These unprocessed documents had increased to more than 9,200 as of August 31, a 50% increase in the two months of July and August. It is certain that many of these documents pertain to items included in the suspense account - items which must be manually researched in lieu of using the Electronic Data Processing (EDP) facilities. Delinquencies and non-receipt of first payments obviously could go undetected until these documents are pro- cessed through the system. This could result in a reduction of revenues. The Contract Auditor recommended that this backlog of documents be processed immediately and that future documents be processed on a current basis.
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whatever action is necessary to direct that all child support payments in welfare- related cases be transferred to the Court Trustee system. DPSS-CSU is not providing the Court Trustee with the data required to establish
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and control payments received through the EDP facilities. This deficiency should be corrected immediately. The Task Force Project direction and control should be placed under the
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auspices of the CAO and its objectives should change from design of an entirely new system to making timely improvements and additions within the frame- work of the present system. In addition to transfer of the Task Force Project to the CAO's direction, we
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note the observation of the Contract Auditor that "the County's Child Support Collection Program is not operating in an efficient or effective manner." Also "The activities of the program are fragmented among several County Agencies... in many cases procedures are weak...in addition ineffective interagency com- munication is inhibiting program operations." We agree that "the most compelling need is the designation of a single agency having the responsibility and the commensurate authority to channel County resources into a more effective system." That the Board of Supervisors take appropriate WE RECOMMEND: action to designate a single coordinating agency to assure achievement of the program goals. REPORT NO. 2 – MUSIC CENTER AND PERFORMING ARTS Ten recommendations were made by the Contract Auditor. Principal recommenda- tions concerned operating problems including parking availability for theatre at- tendees and revenue control procedures. All recommendations were concurred with by representatives of the Chief Admini- strator's Office. They are being implemented with the exception of Nos. 2-8 and 2-9 which concern more detailed accounting for services and supplies received from County departments. These are to be studied in an attempt to devise simplified methods for monitoring these costs. REPORT NO. 3 – OFFICE OF DISTRICT ATTORNEY The Office of the District Attorney agreed with the seven minor recommendations made by the Contract Auditor. This report does not include functions of the D.A. pertaining to the Child Support Collection Program which are set forth in Report No. 1. REPORT NO. 4 – REVOLVING FUNDS Revolving funds are established on an imprest basis and expenditures made are re- imbursed by the Department of the Auditor-Controller. Control balances, therefore, remain constant and the cash on hand plus unreimbursed expenditures should equal the control totals for each of the funds counted. Of $1,218,775 of Imprest Funds scattered at 577 locations in County offices, a total of $1,116,700 of such funds was accounted for in surprise counts and reconciliations. Except for some recommendations relevant to control of the funds, expenditure approvals and other internal procedures, the majority of the funds reviewed appeared to be in good order. However, it was noted that there appeared to be (a) an exces- sively large fund in the custody of DPSS, (b) excessive amounts of unreimbursed disbursements were outstanding as part of the revolving fund balance in the office of the Public Administrator-Public Guardian (some for three years or more) and (c) there were several unresolved cash overages, shortages and unreimbursed cash vouchers outstanding for a long time in funds under the control of the Department of Hospitals. All departments concerned with audit recommendations agreed with them. Actions necessary to correct the deficiencies have been or will be taken. REPORT NO. 5 – PURCHASING AND STORES DEPARTMENT The Purchasing and Stores Department is responsible for negotiating contracts with vendors and purchasing items requisitioned by other departments and special districts within the County. During the 1971-72 fiscal year, about $100 million of materials and supplied were purchased. An inventory of about $3.3 million of items is main- tained by the department. This inventory is utilized to fill requisitions amounting on an annual basis to about $20 million or about six times the inventory value. Many relatively minor "housekeeping" observations and recommendations were made which, after review by the Audit Committee, were incorporated in a separate letter to the Purchasing Agent for his information and consideration. Of the remaining comments and recommendations included in the audit report the most important were concerned with inventory management and with printing and duplicating facilities. INVENTORY MANAGEMENT The Contract Auditor's analysis indicated that the inventory at May 31, 1972 in- cluded 15.3% of the total items in stock representing 14% of total dollar value. Based on average consumption this was more than one year's supply of such items. Furthermore, the analysis showed that 34.6% of items with a dollar value of 36.4% of the total inventory were items sufficient for a period of six months or more. The Contract Auditor's recommendation with respect to inventory control was, therefore:
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to the Local City Attorney and to the State Bar, which will report about one documented case of capping and running for an attorney and the resultant kickback to a bail bondsman. We invite you to obtain and study a copy of the transcripts of our proceed- ings. After this review, we ask that you consider our findings and our
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The number of committees is not regulated nor prescribed. This year the eight committees did not afford sufficient scope for inquiry into a county that is larger than most states. The functions and titles of committees might vary from year to year. There is no reason for a static structure. It should vary with the needs of the community. It is our opinion that only the Jails Committee and the Criminal Complaints Committee need a minimum membership of eight. Most committees can function effectively with four. Presently the bulk of the committee work falls on the chairman. Hope- fully, additional committees will effect greater participation by all jurors and a more comprehensive look at county government. Li That the jury be impaneled on the basis of a fiscal year rather than a
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calendar year. The transactions of county business, budgets, audits and proposals are all conducted on a fiscal basis. The grand jury term should coincide.
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That the practice of random selection of 23 grand jurors from nominees selected by Superior Court judges be retained.
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That both civil and criminal powers be retained on one county grand jury. (For explanation of recommendations 8 and 9 see Criminal Complaints Report.)
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That at the time of the final drawing, after the 23 names are drawn, the eleven remaining shall be drawn in sequence and held in abeyance. Should a vacancy occur, the next available juror could be impaneled. This procedure would prevent the loss of time and money that occurs in the present method, for the court as well as for the jury. Respectfully submitted, Beverly Logan, Chairman Gloria Coodley Laurence T. Greiner Ralph L. Inglis Leslie E. Kelly Robert G. Metzner George M. Peacock George A. Peck, Jr. Marie Y. Shibuya Murray H. Strasburg MRS. BERNICE LOFTON LAURENCE T. GREINER RALPH L. INGLIS SECRETARY FOREMAN PRO TEM FOREMAN WALTER MAIER WILLIAM J. BRADDOCK COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ROBERT G. METZNER PABLO A. CARTAGENA 1972 GRAND JURY FRANK G. MORALES JULIAN N. COLE MRS. GLORIA M. COODLEY ERNEST PAIK 13-303 CRIMINAL COURTS BUILDING LOS ANGELES, CALIF. 90012 GEORGE M. PEACOCK MICHAEL J. DILLON 629-2451 GEORGE A. PECK, JR. MRS. GLORIA L. EINSMANN MRS. RUTH RICKLES LAURENCE T. "TOM" GREINER August 29, 1972 MRS. MARIE Y. SHIBUYA RALPH L. INGLIS MURRAY H. STRASBURG LESLIE E. KELLY EARLE Y. SULLIVAN MRS. BERNICE LOFTON CHARLES R. WHEELER MRS. BEVERLY LOGAN MRS. MARGARET B. LUSK The Honorable Charles A. Loring Presiding Judge, Superior Court Room 200, Courthouse Los Angeles, California 90012 Dear Judge Loring: Now that we are reaching the final few months in our Los Angeles County Grand Jury activities we would like to record with you certain of our observations and
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The District Attorney's discharge of his responsibilities in connection with the Child Support Collection Program appears to be operating effectively under the present system. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES - CHILD SUPPORT COLLECTION PROGRAM The Child Support Units of DPSS are presently charged with the responsibility of interviewing applicants for welfare when (a) an absent parent is involved, (b) search- ing for absent parents is required, (c) obtaining an agreement to support or referring cases to the D.A. and (d) following up on cases involving either DPSS or D.A. agree- ments. Prior to March 1, 1972, the Child Support Units were a part of the regular welfare eligibility organization on which date these units were placed under the Bureau of Special Operations. This unit of DPSS is responsible for advising the D.A. of Failure to Provide cases and for advising the Court Trustee of all support agreements in welfare-related cases to be channeled through the Court Trustee. Payment histories and processing delinquent payment notices are also the responsibility of the DPSS-Child Support Unit. Case histories, including case maintenance data, financial data pertaining to allowances authorized and actually paid, are also the responsibility of this unit of DPSS. There are approximately 245,000 absent parents of children on welfare in the County. Agreements for child support have been reached with about 25,000. The most important observations of the Contract Auditor relate to "direct pay" support cases, initiating cases through Court Trustee Notification and Delinquency Processing. DIRECT PAY SUPPORT CASES RECOMMENDATION NO. 1-16: "All direct payment, welfare-related, child support payments now being processed by DPSS Child Support Units be transferred to the Court Trustee system." Of approximately 25,000 agreements with absent parents for child support only about 10,000 utilize the services of the Court Trustee. The majority of the payments are made directly by the absent parent to the parent with custody of the children, probably under agreements preceding the effective date of the Family Law Act of 1970. Processing of all cases involving welfare through the Court Trustee system would provide automated delinquency processing. Also this would augment receipts from the State Support Enforcement Incentive Fund (SEIF) which amounts to 21.25% of absent parent contributions relating to welfare cases. This fund is intended to offset some or all of the County's administrative costs related to the Child Support Collection Program. Direct payments by absent parents not deposited in the welfare fund and reported to the State as abatements of expenditures are not claimable for SEIF monies. INITIATING CASES - COURT TRUSTEE NOTIFICATION RECOMMENDATION NO. 1-19: "Child Support Units (CSU) forward a Welfare Agreement (form CA 290A) along with the Notification to Court Trustee (PA450) on all new cases." The Family Law Act of 1970 requires that all support payments in welfare-related cases be made through the Court Trustee system. When the Child Support Unit interviews the absent parent and obtains a support agreement, the absent parent is given cards with which to submit the first payment to the Court Trustee. At the same time the CSU prepares and sends a Notification to the Court Trustee. The practice of the Court Trustee has been to delay establishment of the case in the computer system until the first payment has been received. Part of the rationale for this procedure has been that the Notification does not contain sufficient data to establish the case since the form contains data related primarily to the welfare recipient and not to the absent parent who will be making payments. In order to have sufficient data to set up the case on the computer, the Court Trustee needs a copy of the Welfare Agreement which contains payor and payment data. If the Child Support Unit were to provide a copy of the Agreement with every Notifica- tion the case could be set up on the Court Trustee's system prior to receipt of the first payment. Some Child Support Units attach a copy of the Agreement to the Notification but it appears that this is not the practice in all units. DELINQUENCY PROCESSING RECOMMENDATION NO. 1-20: "The Child Support Units discontinue the posting and updating of Payment History Control Cards." (Form PA 14) The Payment History Control Cards are posted either from direct payments received or from a Payment History Card received from the Welfare Data Center for those cases paid through the Court Trustee. Based on a monthly review of these cards, delinquent payments should be identified and notices initiated. Key observations of the Contract Auditor were: "Our review of delinquency processing indicates that the system is not working effectively. Data supplied by DPSS...indicate that out of a total active case load of 245,000 cases, only 210 delinquency notices were processed...The primary reason for this situation is that, for several months, the Child Support Units did not receive computer-prepared Payment History Cards from the Welfare Data Center...There- fore, at the time of our review, the Failure to Provide Payment Control Cards in most Child Support Units had not been updated since June 1971."

Comments 2

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A Company of the last Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of the Section of t
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Name of Persons Conquest gargers

* This report's PDF did not contain easily extractable text and required Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for analysis. There may be minor errors in the extracted findings and recommendations due to OCR limitations with scanned documents.