Possibility of Theft Added to Probe of Sanitation Workers

An investigation into suspected drug use by employees at the Sanitation Districts of Orange County continued Friday, and officials say they are also probing allegations of equipment theft.

The agency hired a private security firm to handle the investigation a few weeks ago after residents reported suspicious late night activities at sewage treatment plants in Fountain Valley and Huntington Beach.

The firm has found evidence that some plant employees used marijuana and other drugs while on duty and that workers might have stolen equipment and supplies from the plants, officials said.

“I’m very surprised by what they found,” said John J. Collins, joint chairman of the sanitation districts. “But the [security] consultants told us we should not be surprised. Any large business that has this kind of investigation could find this kind of activity.”

The investigators have interviewed dozens of employees this week and plan more sessions next week.

Some employees were placed on paid administrative leave following their interviews. Collins said the leaves are designed to prevent the employees from comparing their stories with colleagues or otherwise disrupting the investigation.

Management will consider disciplinary action against employees once the investigation is completed. Fountain Valley police and agency officials said no arrests were made on Friday.

Officials stressed that the activities under investigation have in no way jeopardized plant safety or caused environmental problems.