California — A recent state investigation uncovered widespread wage theft violations affecting janitorial workers across Los Angeles and Orange counties. Over 90 janitors who cleaned manufacturing, laboratory, and healthcare facilities reportedly went years without proper pay, raising serious concerns about employer accountability in California’s labor market. The California Labor Commissioner has now issued citations totaling $468,204 to multiple janitorial companies and OptumCare Management LLC.
Findings From the Labor Commissioner’s Investigation
According to the Labor Commissioner’s Office, the investigation revealed a network of janitorial companies—Winsor Maintenance Inc., Winsor Services Inc., Main Source entities, and Top Building Material & Supply Inc.—operating as a single enterprise.
Investigators say members of the Hong family and an associate used multiple connected companies to obscure who was responsible for paying workers. Janitors reportedly performed the same duties for years, reported to identical supervisors, and wore uniforms labeled “Main Source,” yet wage statements listed different employer names.
Officials also discovered that workers were denied minimum wages, overtime pay, split-shift premiums, and legally mandated meal and rest breaks. Many did not get payment for travel between jobs or received incomplete pay stubs. After 2019 referrals, the case went to a 14-day administrative hearing, with some companies subsequently declaring bankruptcy.
Essential Worker Protections in California
California has robust worker protections, with key labor laws in place to address wage theft cases. Employers must follow strict wage, break, and record-keeping standards.
Under Labor Code § 1194, workers have the right to recover unpaid wages, including minimum wages, overtime, and related penalties, if their employers fail to comply with the law. When these standards are violated, employees can seek full compensation through California’s wage recovery process.
Key protections include:
- Guaranteed minimum wage and proper overtime pay
- Required, uninterrupted meal and rest breaks
- Accurate and complete wage statements for every pay period
- Timely payment of all earned wages at separation
- Joint liability for companies that use subcontracted labor
Getting Help From an Employment Lawyer
Wage theft can leave workers overwhelmed, uncertain, and financially vulnerable, especially when employers use complex structures to avoid responsibility. Our team at Labor Law Advocates works with experienced employment lawyers knowledgeable in California labor laws to help pursue potential compensation.
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss wage theft issues and explore your legal options.
