A former Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department custody assistant has pleaded no contest to charges of sexual assault against an inmate. The incident occurred in a Lancaster jail cell in 2019. Daniel Everts, now 30 years old, entered his plea in court, and prosecutors are pushing for a maximum sentence of eight years in prison.
The case began when a woman, who was detained for driving under the influence, alleged that Everts assaulted her after she requested a blanket. According to her lawsuit, which was settled for $950,000, Everts threatened her, saying she could face additional time in custody if she did not comply with his demands. He then forced her to perform oral sex.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman expressed his outrage over the situation, stating, “What happened to the victim in this case is unconscionable.” He emphasized that law enforcement officials who commit such crimes should face severe consequences and vowed to seek the maximum penalty during sentencing.
Everts was initially charged with three felonies, including forcible oral copulation and sexual activity with a detained inmate. After pleading not guilty at first, he changed his plea to no contest this month. He was arrested shortly after the incident and released on $100,000 bail.
The sentencing hearing is set for July 7. This case highlights the serious issue of abuse of authority within law enforcement and the need for accountability in such positions.