24 L.A. County Employees Charged in Urgent $740K Fraud Scheme

UPDATE: A shocking scandal is unfolding in Los Angeles County, where 24 county employees are accused of defrauding the state’s unemployment system for over $740,000. Eleven individuals have been formally charged with felony grand theft, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

These allegations come to light following an earlier announcement in October, identifying another 13 county workers implicated in similar fraudulent acts. District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman stated that the thefts occurred between 2020 and 2023, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Shockingly, these employees, despite earning at least $3,000 per month, falsely claimed unemployment benefits, rendering themselves ineligible for the aid they received.

In a stern warning, Hochman emphasized, “My office will continue relentlessly rooting out fraud and prosecuting government employees who steal from the public they serve.” Among the accused is Georgette McKinney, a supervising child support specialist, who allegedly misappropriated over $132,000 using her identity and 28 fictitious names.

The repercussions of these fraudulent activities extend beyond immediate financial losses. The county has reimbursed the state for the fraudulent claims, with estimates from the Auditor-Controller’s office suggesting losses could exceed $3.5 million due to various schemes, including those by its own employees.

Several defendants have already appeared in court and pleaded not guilty, with preliminary hearings set to begin in December 2023 and continue into early 2026. County officials are urging residents to report any suspicious activities to the Los Angeles County Fraud Hotline.

This breach of public trust comes at a time when governmental systems are already under strain due to the pandemic. The unfolding scandal raises serious questions about integrity among those in public service and the impact on community trust.

As this story develops, the implications for the county’s operational integrity and future preventive measures remain unclear. Stay tuned for updates on this urgent situation.