CALIFORNIA – A man was charged today with murdering Los Angeles County Probation Officer Paula Lind at her Lancaster home last weekend.
“The murder of Officer Lind has shocked all of Los Angeles County, and we in the District Attorney’s Office extend our condolences to her family, friends and Probation Department colleagues,” Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said. “That this officer who dedicated her career to public safety fell victim to senseless and depraved violence in her home is beyond tragic. We will do all in our power to hold the person responsible for this to account. My office’s victim advocates stand ready to offer support and services to Officer Lind’s family.”
The identity of the individual in custody in connection with the murder is unknown at this time. He is believed to be homeless.
He has been charged in a “John Doe” complaint with one count each of ‘murder, assault with intent to commit rape during a residential burglary, first-degree residential burglary and sexual contact with deceased remains.’
In addition, special allegations of personal use of a firearm and first-degree residential burglary with a person present were filed.
He is accused of breaking into Officer Lind’s home on Barrymore Avenue on Sunday, Sept. 25 and killing her.
“When deputies arrived, they found the victim … unresponsive and suffering from blunt head trauma,” according to a sheriff’s department statement. “The victim was subsequently pronounced dead at the scene. […] “A male who was discovered in the house has been currently detained. There is no additional information available at this time.”
“Our hearts are heavy today. Our Officers work daily to help folks start over and rebuild their lives; their work helps keep communities safe,” Chief Probation Officer Adolfo Gonzales wrote in a statement. “It is horrifying to hear that one of our beloved Officers passed in this manner. I am hopeful that the individual responsible for this attack will be held accountable and that justice will prevail. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lind family, loved ones, and friends.”
The office is requesting that the man remain in custody and no bail be set.
The case remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
