Saturday, October 4, 2025

Barger Introduces Motion to Investigate Alleged Fraud in Childhood Sexual Abuse Lawsuits Against County

Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger on Friday introduced a motion directing County Counsel to investigate alleged fraud tied to civil claims filed under AB 218, a California state law that extended the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse lawsuits.

The motion comes amid a historic $4 billion settlement involving approximately 11,000 plaintiffs—many of whom were formerly in the foster care and probation systems. It is the largest financial settlement in County history, with additional settlements expected.

Barger, who represents Altadena and Pasadena, cited a recent Los Angeles Times investigation that raised concerns about attorney misconduct, including allegations that some lawyers may have offered cash incentives for fabricated claims. Her motion calls for immediate inquiry into the allegations, potential referrals to the California State Bar, enhanced oversight of settlement agreements, and the creation of a fraud hotline.

“Fraudulent claims not only jeopardize taxpayer dollars, they also revictimize survivors of childhood sexual abuse by diminishing the legitimacy of their pain and experience,” Barger said in a statement. “I will not stand by while unscrupulous actors try to exploit a system that was created to deliver justice and healing.”

County Counsel is expected to report back within 14 days with updates on the investigation and hotline implementation.

“Every legitimate survivor of childhood sexual abuse deserves to be heard and supported,” Barger added. “But we also have a responsibility to safeguard the integrity of the process. I am committed to rooting out fraud so that justice is not compromised.”

The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote on the motion at its next meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 7.