AG Bonta announced a $15 million settlement with Sweetwater Care Resource, LLC and affiliates, a licensed skilled nursing facility chain that violated state staffing requirement laws. The settlement includes $12.5 million in penalties and costs and $2.5 million in funds toward improving staffing and securing a compliance monitor. The settlement also includes injunctive terms imposing an Independent Compliance Monitor for all 17 Sweetwater SNFs for the next three years.

“Our elders deserve care that is safe, dignified, and consistently held to the highest standards. When those entrusted with the care of elderly residents fail to live up to these standards and put Californians in harm’s way, we take action. This settlement is a step in the right direction for Sweetwater Care and it underscores the California Department of Justice’s commitment to standing against any form of Medi-Cal fraud or elder abuse. We will continue to hold accountable those who put profits over patients.” -AG Bonta