Fresno, California — In a historic legal move, the City of Fresno initiated its first wage theft prosecution, targeting Pinnacle Hospitality and Development and contractor Juan Moreno. The 19-page complaint, filed in Fresno County Superior Court, follows a year-long investigation that identified nine victims, primarily low-wage laborers, who allegedly received far less than the legal minimum for construction work.
Key details from the complaint include:
- The alleged violations occurred between August 2023 and January 2024.
- Work took place at the Holiday Inn near Highway 99 and Herndon Avenue.
- Tasks included demolition, tile and carpet installation, painting, and cleaning.
According to Fresno City Attorney Andrew Janz, workers were paid as little as $50 for shifts lasting 8 to 12 hours, six days a week. Some were promised piece-rate pay; others received cash without documentation.
The lawsuit includes 11 labor code violations and estimates approximately $58,000 in owed penalties. Evidence includes text messages, videos, and victim statements.
Councilmember Tyler Maxwell emphasized that the legal action marks a significant effort to protect Fresno’s most vulnerable workers. The case is backed by a $720,000 state grant, one of the largest allocations of its kind in California.
The city is now reviewing 12 additional wage theft cases.
If you suspect wage theft, our experienced employment lawyers in California can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options. We offer free and confidential consultations, so contact us today to get the support you deserve.
