Press Release
Four Charged in Workers’ Compensation Fraud Scheme Targeting Spanish Speakers
Inland Empire—Four individuals, including two attorneys from the Inland Empire, have been charged in a workers’ compensation fraud scheme that allegedly exploited vulnerable Spanish-speaking workers. The California Department of Insurance announced that the scheme resulted in estimated losses exceeding $14.5 million.
Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara condemned the fraud, stating, "This is a disturbing case of alleged fraud that preyed on vulnerable, hardworking people." The investigation began in October 2022 after reports emerged that a call center in Mexico was misleading Spanish-speaking workers into filing claims. Many unknowingly submitted paperwork that was sold unlawfully to attorneys, including Michael De La Garza from Fontana and Antony Gluck from San Bernardino.
De La Garza and Gluck were arrested on April 23, with bail set at $500,000. They face charges of felony conspiracy and unlawful referrals. Other defendants include Arely Franco, who was apprehended attempting to enter the U.S., and Juan Leal from Riverside, who has a history of similar convictions.
Franco allegedly sold hundreds of clients to the attorneys for significant sums. The case is under prosecution by the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, highlighting urgent concerns over worker exploitation.
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