Huntington Park Corruption Investigation: Search Warrants Executed in “Operation Dirty Pond”
District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced today the execution of search warrants at 11 locations in connection with an ongoing investigation into potential public corruption in Huntington Park, California. The investigation, dubbed “Operation Dirty Pond,” is focused on the alleged misuse of millions of dollars in public funds meant for the construction of an aquatic center at Salt Lake Park.
This operation marks a significant development in the investigation, which began in November 2022, as the District Attorney’s office seeks to uncover any fraudulent activity involving public officials and contractors.
The Scope of the Investigation
The search warrants executed today target multiple locations, including Huntington Park City Hall, the Public Works Office, and the Salt Lake Park site where the proposed aquatic center is to be built. The following locations were searched:
- Huntington Park City Hall (6550 Miles Ave.)
- Huntington Park Public Works (6900 Bissell St.)
- Salt Lake Park (3401 E. Florence Ave.)
- Residence of Edvin Tsaturyan & Sona Vardikyan (Glendale, CA)
- Residence of Efren Martinez (Los Angeles, CA)
- Unified Consulting Services LLC Office (Huntington Park, CA)
- Multiple residences of current and former Huntington Park City officials
Among the individuals under scrutiny are several current and former city officials. These include Ricardo Reyes, the current Huntington Park City Manager, and Karina Macias, the current Huntington Park Mayor. Former city councilmembers like Graciela Ortiz and Marilyn Sanabria are also implicated.
Search and Seizure Details
During the course of the searches, investigators seized public records, financial paperwork, electronic devices, including computers, tablets, and cell phones, in order to gather evidence. The items taken are crucial for understanding the financial operations behind the alleged misuse of public funds, as well as any misconduct by public officials involved in the project.
The investigation is expected to provide clarity on the details of how the funds allocated for the aquatic center were used, with a focus on whether any funds were diverted for personal gain or misappropriated.
District Attorney’s Statement on Accountability
District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized his office's commitment to ensuring public officials act with honesty, integrity, and transparency. He said, “When concerns arise about the use of public funds or the actions of those in office, it is our duty to investigate thoroughly and protect the public’s trust.”
Hochman further stated, “I want to commend our dedicated prosecutors and investigators for their diligent work on this complex case. Their unwavering commitment to justice ensures that no one — regardless of their position or title — is above the law.”
This strong stance on holding public officials accountable reflects the District Attorney’s office’s dedication to rooting out corruption in the local government.
Public Assistance and Call for Information
The District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation is urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Sgt. Robert L. Jackson, of the Bureau of Investigation, can be contacted at 213-257-2511 for tips related to the ongoing probe.
The involvement of the public in these investigations is essential. Community members who have any information about the construction of the aquatic center or who may have encountered suspicious activities related to the project are encouraged to reach out.
Looking Ahead: The Role of Public Integrity
This investigation into public corruption highlights the importance of maintaining public integrity within local government. The involvement of the Public Integrity Division of the District Attorney's Office further underscores the severity of the allegations. This division is specifically tasked with handling corruption cases, ensuring that public funds are spent properly and that public officials remain trustworthy.
As this case develops, more details about the actions of Huntington Park officials will come to light, and it will be crucial to see whether further charges are filed or if the funds allocated for the aquatic center were misused in any way.
“Operation Dirty Pond” serves as a reminder that no one—not even high-ranking government officials—is above the law when it comes to public corruption. With search warrants executed and crucial evidence seized, the District Attorney’s office is committed to uncovering the truth and holding any wrongdoers accountable.
As the investigation unfolds, the public’s trust and the integrity of local government are at stake. The Huntington Park corruption probe is expected to have significant ramifications for the city’s governance and the way public projects are managed.
Call to Action: If you have any information related to the aquatic center project or the ongoing investigation into public corruption in Huntington Park, please contact Sgt. Robert L. Jackson at 213-257-2511.
