A Los Angeles Superior Court judge faces intense scrutiny after multiple violent criminals received mental health diversion instead of jail time, with at least one defendant now missing. Judge Lana Kim’s pattern of granting diversion to accused violent offenders has sparked outrage from prosecutors and raised serious public safety concerns.
Alleged Kidnapper Disappears After Diversion
Courtney Perrone, accused of attempting to kidnap an eight-year-old girl in Santa Monica in August 2024, has been missing since May 17, 2026. Judge Kim granted Perrone mental health diversion in February 2025 over prosecutors’ strong objections. According to police, Perrone approached the child in an alley, claimed to be with Russian police, and tried to pull the girl away. When a neighbor intervened, Perrone allegedly brandished a switchblade before fleeing. Officers arrested her at a nearby supermarket parking lot.
A literal quote from Judge Lana Kim: "I don't want to put anyone on jail, I do not find any humor or satisfaction in doing that." https://t.co/PGM76p6bdC
— Xeriland (@Xeriland) July 10, 2026
The case becomes more troubling given Perrone’s criminal history. Authorities discovered she had outstanding New Hampshire warrants for stalking and forgery, and was on probation following an assault with a deadly weapon conviction in Nevada. Despite this violent background, Kim approved diversion, allowing Perrone to avoid criminal conviction and jail time. She has now absconded from her mental health treatment facility.
Prosecutor Denounces Pattern
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office issued a sharp rebuke of the diversion decision. A spokesman stated the case demonstrates a dangerous pattern from the Office of Diversion and Reentry. Prosecutors emphasized they objected to Perrone’s diversion specifically to prevent this outcome. The spokesman noted that Perrone never faced consequences for her actions or accepted responsibility for her crimes. The District Attorney’s Office characterized the decision as a complete failure of the justice system.
Judge’s Philosophy on Incarceration
Judge Kim’s approach reflects her stated judicial philosophy. In a 2023 Daily Journal profile titled “Cheerleader for People,” Kim stated plainly: “I don’t want to put anyone in jail.” Kim, who spent approximately 15 years as a prosecutor before joining the bench, explained she does not view incarceration as the ideal outcome when approaching cases. Her diversion grants have included cases involving attempted murder, attempted kidnapping, alleged hate crimes, and a wrong-way freeway crash on the 405 Freeway. Perrone remains scheduled for a court status conference on February 19, 2027, ahead of a preliminary hearing, though her whereabouts remain unknown.