Arnold Garcia

* The Probation Commission wishes to thank The Times for the accurate account of the tragedy that took place at the Probation Department’s Dorothy Kirby Treatment Center. Your report of the brutal attack upon and subsequent death of Arnold Garcia, a group supervisor, was handled with considerable restraint and sensitivity (April 6, 10).

In the weeks ahead, a major effort will be spent in determining how and why the sad event took place, and the steps that can be taken to avoid subsequent acts of violence by young people involved with the juvenile justice system. Unfortunately, though necessary, these fact-finding efforts will in no way comfort Arnold Garcia’s widow and 11 children, one of whom is only 10 months old.

It is the Probation Commission’s hope that your readers translate their shock and sympathy into actions that will benefit the family of a man who spent 17 years of his life worrying about other people’s children. Perhaps we can repay the debt and help his family with a contribution to the Arnold Garcia Memorial Fund, c/o Paul Higa, Probation Department Headquarters, 9150 E. Imperial Highway, Room N-91, Downey, 90242.

BETTY ROSENSTEIN

President, Probation Commission

Los Angeles County