Complaint Investigation Report

The investigation revealed the following:

Regarding allegation: “ Facility is experiencing financial issues/hardship .” It is alleged that numerous hourly employees are experiencing repeated delays in getting paid and this issue is happening over several pay periods. (8) of (8) staff interviewed denied the allegation. Staff interviewed stated they get their pay on time and did not believe the facility is in financial difficulty since utilities are paid on time and clients’ needs are met. Some staff interviewed acknowledged they received their salary a little later than usual on two occasions within the last year, but they were okay with it. The first time, they received their salary the next day, and the second time, they received it the next morning. Other staff interviewed stated they know that the company has 5 business days to pay its staff. LPA also spoke with the licensee who denied the allegation and reiterated that, as stated in their handbook, the staff are aware that the business has five business/working days to pay. Interview with SC revealed that they never see anything out of the ordinary when they come over for their regular visits that would indicate financial difficulties or have a direct impact on the facility’s operations. Furthermore, SC stated the facility always have their basic utilities turned on, as well as the food and other necessities required for operating the facility. LPA’s review of financial and operational records did not show hardship. In addition, LPA also checked the Secretary of State’s records, and the licensee and its parent company were found to be in good standing. Documentation reviewed and interviews conducted do not corroborate this allegation

Regarding allegation: “ Insufficient Staffing .” It is alleged that due to recurring issues with late payroll, there is a potential staff walkout at the facility which may result in inadequate staffing, as employees have discussed walking out if the issue persists. (8) of (8) staff interviewed denied the allegation and stated they have never considered walking out or heard anyone discuss it. Additionally, staff interviewed stated that the payroll was not late but within the time frame they agreed upon with the licensee. Staff also confirmed they meet the Regional Center’s staffing requirements. S1-S2 also stated they are available to cover shifts if needed. LPA observed sufficient staffing levels during the visit, with ratios of 2:1 and 3:1. LPA reviewed the facility schedule and observed that the facility administrator was present for a sufficient amount of time, ensuring that there were enough staff to properly oversee clients with their daily needs. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to support the allegation.

Based on statements and interviews conducted with staff, review of clients’ files and facility file records, there was not enough supportive evidence to concur with the reported allegations. Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur, therefore the allegations are UNSUBSTANTIATED.

Exit interview conducted and a copy of this report was provided to Zion Asuega, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT).