September 11, 2026: DA Hochman Statement on the Placement of Sexually Violent Predator Harold Wachter in the Antelope Valley

LOS ANGELES - After strenuous opposition by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, the Los Angeles County Superior Court approved placing sexually violent predator Harold Wachter in the city of Lancaster.

Wachter has a history of sexual crimes against children and has several convictions in Los Angeles County for sexually violent offenses.

On Sept. 10, 2026, a public placement hearing was held at the Hollywood Courthouse to discuss the proposed placement of Wachter in the Antelope Valley upon his release from Coalinga State Hospital. This decision was not only strongly opposed by our office but by elected officials and community members.

On April 20, 2023, the Los Angeles County Superior Court found Wachter suitable for conditional release and ordered the Department of State Hospitals, including their contractor Liberty Healthcare, to begin the search for housing in Los Angeles County. The Department of State Hospitals has recommended that Wachter be placed in a residence on the 200^th Street East in Lancaster.

"For too long, the Antelope Valley has served as a targeted location for the placement of sexually violent predators," said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman. "The continuous placement of sexually violent predators into the same community creates real, direct safety risks for the residents of Antelope Valley. We strongly urge the Department of State Hospitals, Liberty Healthcare, and the courts to explore other options for placements of sexually violent predators.

"Keeping Los Angeles County safe remains a foundational priority of this office. Our office's opposition to Wachter's placement reflects ongoing conversations and advocacy with the communities we serve as we strive to ensure public safety. We will continue to keep residents informed and engaged as we advocate for outcomes to protect individuals and neighborhoods."