Today, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger introduced a motion aimed at investigating and addressing recent allegations of fraud tied to civil claims filed under AB 218, the state law extending the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse lawsuits.
Thousands of AB 218 claims have been filed against Los Angeles County, many involving individuals formerly in the foster care and probation systems. The County is currently facing a historic $4 billion settlement covering approximately 11,000 plaintiffs—the largest financial settlement in County history–with more settlements to come.
A recent Los Angeles Times investigation raised disturbing allegations that some attorneys involved in AB 218 claims may have engaged in misconduct, including offering cash incentives for fabricated allegations. Supervisor Barger’s motion directs County Counsel to immediately investigate these allegations, explore referrals to the California State Bar, strengthen oversight of settlement agreements, and establish a fraud hotline for reporting misconduct.
“Fraudulent claims not only jeopardize taxpayer dollars, they also revictimize survivors of childhood sexual abuse by diminishing the legitimacy of their pain and experience,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “I will not stand by while unscrupulous actors try to exploit a system that was created to deliver justice and healing. This motion is about accountability, protecting survivors, and ensuring that County resources go to those who truly deserve them.”
Under the motion, County Counsel will report back within 14 days with updates on the claims and fraud 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 Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors will vote on Supervisor Barger’s motion at their next meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.