Labor Fraud Case Raises Concern Over Contractor
Labor fraud charges filed this week against a Lancaster contractor in connection with a recent public works project have raised concerns among Lancaster officials about the contractor’s labor practices on five other city projects.
Lancaster City Atty. David McEwen said Friday he plans to look into the possibility of further investigation and other legal options in the wake of the criminal case filed Wednesday against the owners of Paxin Electric Inc.
McEwen said it may be legally difficult to suspend or revoke more than $800,000 in city contracts held by the firm.
State labor officials have accused company President James Paxin, 38, and his wife Brenda, 40, of defrauding employees of about $170,000 on projects at Lancaster City Hall and a Santa Clarita park in 1988 and 1989.
The Paxins and their attorney have declined to comment.
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