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California AG Files Felony Charges Against Construction Firm for Wage Theft & Tax Evasion

2024-11-27

In summary, a wood framing company is facing serious legal issues. It is accused of stiffing workers and the state $2.6 million. Two employees could potentially face penalties and jail time if convicted. This case highlights the importance of adhering to wage and tax laws in the construction industry.

Uncovering the Truth Behind the Wage Theft Allegation

Wage Theft Allegations and Their Implications

A wood framing company has found itself in hot water with the law. It is alleged to have dodged more than $2.5 million in state payroll taxes and underpaid workers on a public housing project in Cathedral City. This not only affects the workers who deserve fair compensation but also has implications for the state's revenue. Under California's prevailing wage laws, employers are required to pay workers the appropriate wage. However, this company seems to have thought it could operate outside these laws.The case involves various violations, including grand theft, payroll tax evasion, and prevailing wage theft. Such actions not only harm the workers but also undermine the integrity of the construction industry. It is crucial that companies abide by the law to ensure a fair and sustainable work environment.

Impact on Workers and the State

The workers affected by this wage theft are left with significant financial losses. In this case, at least 19 workers in Riverside County were robbed of their wages in 2021 and 2022. California's penal code clearly states that employers can face grand theft charges for stealing more than $950 in wages from one employee or a total of $2,350 from two or more employees within a year. These workers deserve to be paid what they are entitled to, and the company's actions are a clear violation of their rights.Moreover, the state also suffers as a result of this tax evasion. The company failed to pay the appropriate payroll taxes, which directly impacts the state's revenue. This money could have been used to fund various public services and projects that benefit all Californians.

Actions Taken and the Need for Accountability

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has taken significant action against this company. He filed 31 felony charges, including wage theft and tax evasion. This shows the seriousness with which the state views such violations and its commitment to protecting workers and the public interest.Political observers expect Bonta to announce a run for governor, and publicizing this high-profile labor case may help him build support from unions. Most wage theft cases are handled administratively or in civil court, but in this case, criminal charges have been filed.It is essential that companies are held accountable for their actions. Developers should avoid doing business with companies that skirt employment and tax laws. By doing so, we can help prevent similar incidents from occurring and ensure a more just and equitable work environment.In conclusion, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of following wage and tax laws in the construction industry. Companies must understand that they cannot operate outside the law and that they have a responsibility to pay their workers fairly and comply with tax obligations. Only by holding companies accountable can we protect the rights of workers and the interests of the state.

Capitol Reef National Park is witnessing a significant phase of development as certain trails and a section of the major road start to reopen while more closures are on the horizon. This article delves into the details of these changes and their implications for visitors.

Experience the Rebirth of Capitol Reef's Trails and Roads

Chimney Rock Trail and Spring Canyon Areas

After a brief closure for essential repairs and improvements, the Chimney Rock Trail and Spring Canyon areas are once again accessible to visitors. The parking lot reopened on Monday, with adjustments made to the parking area and drainage systems. New vault toilets have also been installed, enhancing the overall visitor experience. These improvements ensure a more comfortable and convenient stay for those exploring these popular trails.

Park rangers have been working diligently to ensure the safety of visitors during this transition period. With some "finishing work" still in progress this week, caution is advised around any lingering construction. This allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while respecting the ongoing efforts to enhance the park's facilities.

The reopening of these areas marks a significant step forward in the park's ongoing development. It provides an opportunity for both new and returning visitors to immerse themselves in the unique landscapes and geological wonders that Capitol Reef National Park has to offer.

Scenic Drive Reopening and Closures

On Tuesday, a section of Scenic Drive reopened, granting visitors access up to a little past the Grand Wash intersection. This provides a great opportunity for those looking to explore the park from a different vantage point. However, the other closed section of the road, from Grand Wash to Capitol Gorge, is expected to reopen next month. This upcoming reopening will bring with it more new restrooms and access to the Capitol Gorge lot, further enhancing the park's amenities.

Despite the progress made, park officials faced a setback when "delayed schedule and colder temperatures" prevented crews from completing the Scenic Drive paving. As a result, another temporary closure of Scenic Drive is projected to take place sometime in the spring of next year. This will allow crews to lay down a second layer of pavement, ensuring a more durable and long-lasting surface.

The $12-million project, coordinated with the Federal Highway Administration, aims to address the facilities that were in need of repair and refurbishment. As the park's popularity continues to grow, these improvements are crucial for maintaining its status as a top tourist destination.

Visitor Numbers and Park Success

Despite the construction activities this year, Capitol Reef has already surpassed its visitation levels of the past two years. According to National Park Service visitation data, nearly 1.3 million people visited the park between January and October, making 2024 its second-busiest year on record. Its record remains 2021, which garnered a little more than 1.4 million visits.

This shows the enduring appeal of Capitol Reef National Park and the growing interest in exploring its natural wonders. The park's staff has been working hard to manage the increased visitor numbers while ensuring the preservation of the park's unique ecosystem.

The ongoing projects and improvements are a testament to the park's commitment to providing a high-quality experience for visitors. As the final reopening approaches, visitors can look forward to an even better experience in this remarkable national park.

Hispanic construction workers in a Kernersville neighborhood have been left wondering what to do after experiencing verbal attacks while on the job. These incidents occurred in October in the new subdivision of Caleb’s Creek, near Interstate 40 and Union Cross Road. At times, the situation even seemed to verge on physical altercations.

Police Response and Lack of Arrests

The Kernersville Police Department has chosen not to investigate the incident, as stated by Police Chief Jason Tilley, as no crime was committed. Multiple neighbors have urged the police to at least consider harassment charges. One couple was heard shouting derogatory and offensive remarks at the workers, such as "You *expletive* immigrant! Go the *expletive* home! Go home!" Vance Wright, who lives nearby, recounted hearing such racial slurs outside his home on Oct. 7. He saw a vehicle parked with a couple yelling at the construction workers. Ring camera video later showed the couple driving by, yelling slurs, reversing, getting out of the car, and approaching the workers. However, the workers chose to ignore the insults. Despite neighbors providing a description and some license plate numbers to the police, no arrests were made. Tilley stated in a statement that after an investigation, no arrests were possible as no crime had been committed. He suggested that the incident may have been provoked by road rage, but Wright disputes this claim, deeming it as racism and harassment. This has left the Caleb’s Creek neighborhood filled with concern, with many residents expressing their unhappiness.

Worker's Perspective

Heladio Agama, one of the workers building homes in the subdivision, expressed his distress upon seeing the video. Through translation, he said, "Clearly, this makes me feel terrible to think that there are people out there who are this racist and simply don't want Hispanics here in this country. We're Hispanics, but we're out here doing the hard work. Why don't they come out here and do the hard work? We're the ones here doing it." His words reflect the frustration and injustice felt by the Hispanic workers.

Homeowners Association President's View

The president of the homeowners association for Caleb’s Creek was aware of the incident and was deeply disturbed by what had happened. He shared a similar sentiment to Agama, emphasizing the hard work being done by the Hispanic workers. He said, "I'm here. I'm working really hard. Yes, I am Hispanic, but I'm the one working hard in this country, and we're doing the job that no one else wants to do."These incidents highlight the challenges faced by Hispanic workers in the construction industry and the need for greater awareness and action to address such acts of racism and harassment.