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32 | Between 10:15 AM – 01:00 PM, LPA conducted an interview with the Administrator, two (2) staff, and two (2) out of three (3) clients who were available. Staff do not prevent resident from using illegal drug inside of facility.
Investigator Dennis Douglas conducted interviews with a witness on 04/21/2025, Administrator and Staff on 04/20/2025 and 04/29/2025, C1 on 05/01/2025, Nurse Practitioner of C1 on 05/20/25, North Los Angeles Regional Center (NLARC) Coordinator on 05/29/2025, C1’s Psychiatrist on 06/27, and C1’s Primary Care Physician (PCP) on 07/02/2025. Additionally, the Investigator contacted Los Angeles Police Department West Valley Station on 06/24/2025.
Investigation findings revealed that Client #1 (C1) had resided at the facility since 09/18/2020 and had a prior history of marijuana and other drug use. Staff and the Administrator reported never witnessing C1 use methamphetamine inside the facility. Marijuana use was permitted only in designated outdoor areas (backyard) in accordance with personal rights guidance from NLARC. C1 purchased marijuana under the pretense of buying cigarettes and occasionally refused to comply with hygiene tasks despite staff reminders. The NLARC Coordinator confirmed C1’s behavioral challenges, including hygiene and aggression, but noted there was no policy requiring staff to allow marijuana use and advised against it. Law enforcement records from LAPD indicated no reports of illegal drug use within the facility. C1 confirmed that marijuana use occurred only in designated areas, while methamphetamine use took place exclusively outside the facility. C1 also reported a history of drug use beginning at age 18, prior to admission.
Medical and psychiatric input indicated that marijuana use was contraindicated due to C1’s psychiatric medications, including Haloperidol, Benztropine, and Depakote. However, civil rights advocacy groups advised that prohibiting marijuana use could violate C1’s personal rights. The Individual Program Plan (IPP) and updated Needs and Service Plan documented that C1 has Borderline Intellectual Disability, requires significant prompting for personal care, and experiences mood swings, depression, anxiety, and occasional suicidal thoughts related to marijuana use. Staff, BCBA, and Regional Center representatives provided structured activities, monitored hygiene and functional skills, and encouraged healthy routines to replace excessive marijuana use. Observations and documentation confirmed that C1 remained in good health, received ongoing behavioral support, and was encouraged to engage in social, recreational, and community activities.
Continue on LIC 9099C
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