This is the third in a four-part series looking into the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles, as told by people who work there. It’s a world where youth convicted of violent felonies are said to control the jails, while law enforcement is helpless to stop it due to defunding and downgrades to formerly strict laws. 

It’s 6 a.m. and time for the first shift at Los Angeles County Juvenile Hall. The probation officer has clocked in, donned protective gear, and is ready to walk into the battle zone.