New specialized units were launched to crack down on fraud schemes that affect residents, the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office announced.
District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced the initiative last week, highlighting how fraudulent claims drive up costs for employers, inflate insurance premiums, and threaten homeowners, especially during times of financial vulnerability.
The DA’s Office has created four dedicated teams to tackle some of the most common and costly forms of fraud, officials said.
The Workers’ Compensation Fraud Unit investigates dishonest employers, applicants, and professionals who attempt to cheat the system with offenses that drive up business costs and harm legitimate workers.
The Healthcare and Disability Fraud Unit focuses on fraudulent disability claims and improper billing by medical providers, which contribute to rising healthcare expenses.
The Auto Insurance Fraud Unit works to stop staged car crashes, false injury claims, and organized fraud rings that often involve legal and medical professionals. These schemes not only raise insurance premiums but also endanger public safety.
Meanwhile, the Real Estate Fraud Unit investigates mortgage fraud, forged deeds, fake property sales, and timeshare scams, especially targeting situations where residents may be most vulnerable, such as after the death of a loved one or during financial crises.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity by calling the Fraud Hotline at (831) 755-3224 or emailing ReportFraud@countyofmonterey.gov