Controversy Surrounds Inglewood Mayor Over Allegations

Allegations against Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. have stirred the city in recent days. They accuse him of misconduct at a community event. Mayor Butts strongly denies the claims, describing them as politically motivated.

At a Monday press conference, Butts spoke publicly for the first time about the incident. He addressed allegations that he inappropriately touched a high school student during a photo at the ‘Votechella’ event. Standing with local and regional leaders and signs urging to ‘Stop the lies,’ Butts explained that these attacks stem from political activists and relate to a larger conflict with entertainment venue operators. The details of what happened at the event outside City Hall are unclear. The student and her family have not commented publicly on the allegations. A family representative has indicated they are following legal advice to await investigation outcomes.

Mayor Butts delivered an emotional speech, accusing his detractors of waging a defamatory and racist campaign. He emphasized that no formal complaint has been lodged by the student or her family. Butts left the press gathered outside City Hall without taking questions.

Attention to these allegations grew last Thursday after political activists held a news conference. This group included individuals who did not witness the alleged incident. Some attendees of ‘Votechella’ told reporters they saw the student looking uncomfortable as the mayor pulled her in for the photo. They remained anonymous, fearing for their safety.

Najee Ali, a local activist, stated, “Anytime a young minor reports inappropriate touching, we must believe and protect them.”

Mayor Butts declared intentions to serve activists, including Najee Ali, Yolanda Davidson, Earl Ofari Hutchinson, and Leonard Redway, with cease-and-desist notices. He accused them of defamation without fact-based accusations. Davidson and Redway are candidates for Inglewood City Council District 1. The mayor also linked political rivals with Measure BB, a local ballot initiative involving commercial advertising regulations. He argues the measure threatens Inglewood’s revenue source.

Despite inquiries, Mayor Butts did not clarify connections between Measure BB supporters and the allegations. The mayor’s role has gained prominence as Inglewood hosts sports teams like the Rams, Chargers, and Clippers, transforming the city.

Butts asserted his commitment to Inglewood over the last 16 years as a period of significant change. He praised the city’s economic revival, highlighting reduced unemployment and improved infrastructure.

During the press conference, State Assemblymember Tina McKinnor voiced support for the mayor. She stressed that while candidates can challenge each other, serious allegations should be handled with care. She noted the absence of a police report or public comment from the student’s family or school superintendent.

Inglewood City Attorney Rick Olivarez stated no formal complaint has been received by his office. Education officials gave no comment on any investigation by the school district, although they assured students’ protection.

Activist Najee Ali submitted a request for criminal investigation to the L.A. County district attorney. The request ties back to the incident on September 15, 2026, involving alleged misconduct by Mayor Butts, reportedly witnessed by several people.

Yolanda Davidson, expressing her concerns, described the allegation as part of a broader pattern of accusations against Butts. In 2019, Mayor Butts faced a lawsuit for sexual harassment, dismissed later in court. Another legal dispute with the former city treasurer, Wanda Brown, on retaliation claims, also concluded unfavorably for her.