complaint·March 14, 2026

Investigation Revealed the Following: Allegation: Allegation: Staff consumes alcohol while caring and supervising residents. The details of the complaint alleged that (S#1) left the facility during NOC shifts to purchase alcohol and returned with alcoholic beverages in various containers. On March 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM, during the records review, LPA Iniguez examined the August 2025 employee handbook. Under “Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace,” the handbook states the facility has a program balancing respect for individuals with maintaining a drug- and alcohol-free environment. In addition, under “Prohibited Behavior,” the handbook lists use, possession, sale, trade, or offering for sale of alcohol or illegal drugs, or being impaired during job duties, as violations of the policy. Staff #1 (S1) acknowledged these statements. On March 5, 2026, at approximately 10:00 AM, during an interview with the facility administrator (A#1), he stated that staff are not permitted to leave the facility while on duty, including overnight (NOC) shifts. Staff may leave the premises only during designated breaks. (A#1) stated that the facility became aware of an allegation involving Staff #1 (S1) consuming or bringing alcohol onto the premises only a few days prior. The facility received an anonymous tip and began an internal investigation. NOC staff and residents were interviewed, and all denied the allegation. Evaluation Report continues LIC 9099-C... Also, (A#1) added that corporate was notified, and the Chief Human Resources Officer and Resident Services Director planned a surprise visit during the night of 03/05/2026, before 4:00 AM, to further investigate. (A#1) reported that the facility responded to the anonymous email with follow-up questions to validate the report but had not received a reply. The facility is prepared to conduct drug and alcohol testing if there is reasonable suspicion of impairment. In addition, (A#1) stated that supervisors are always present, a NOC Lead oversees overnight operations, and the facility is hiring a Resident Services Supervisor for the PM shift to further support staff performance and resident care. When asked about his understanding of the facility’s policies regarding (a) staff leaving the premises during a shift and (b) the possession or consumption of alcohol by staff, and how he ensures his actions align with those policies during NOC shifts, (A#1) reiterated that staff are allowed to leave only during scheduled breaks. (A#1) stated that leaving the facility and not returning during a scheduled shift is not permitted. On March 5, 2026, at approximately 11:30 AM, during interviews with residents in care (R#1–R#9), (9) out of (9) residents stated that they have only observed staff leaving the facility during the overnight hours when staff are on break to obtain food. Residents reported that, for the most part, staff remain on the premises and frequently order food for delivery rather than leaving the facility. In addition, Residents were asked if they had ever seen any facility staff with drinks or containers that appeared unusual or different from what staff normally bring to work during the overnight (NOC) shift. Evaluation Report continues LIC 9099-C... (9) out of (9) residents stated they have not observed any unusual drinks or containers in staff possession during this time. Residents were also asked whether they had observed anything concerning staff behavior, mood, or the way staff provided care during the NOC shift. (9) out of (9) residents reported no concerns, stating that staff behavior and care practices appeared normal and consistent during NOC hours. On 03/05/26, the Department attempted to contact Staff #1 (S#1) for an interview; however, (S#1) could not be reached because she worked the night shift and was unavailable for an interview. On 03/06/26, the Department made a second attempt to contact (S#1). During this attempt, the Department spoke with the Executive Director, who stated that (S#1) was no longer employed at the facility. On March 5, 2026, at approximately 11:00 AM, during interviews with facility staff members (S#2 through S#5), (4) out of (4) staff stated that they have not observed Staff #1 (S#1) leaving the facility before 2:00 a.m. Staff reported that when they previously worked the night shift, they never saw (S#1) leave during the NOC shift. In addition, staff were asked if they had ever seen (S#1) bring any beverages or containers into the facility that appeared to contain alcohol, or if they had observed any signs that (S#1) might have consumed alcohol while on duty. Evaluation Report continues LIC 9099-C... In addition, (4) out of (4) staff stated no, they have not observed (S#1) with any unusual or suspicious beverages or containers. Staff were also asked if they had noticed any changes in (S#1)’s behavior, performance, or interactions with residents during NOC shifts that raised concerns regarding staff conduct or resident supervision. (4) out of (4) staff reported no concerns, stating that when they previously worked NOC shifts with (S#1), they did not observe any behavior that appeared unusual or concerning. During this investigation, LPA did not find sufficient evidence to support the above-mentioned allegation(s). Based on the evidence gathered, interviews conducted, and records reviewed, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore, the above-mentioned allegation(s) are found to be UNSUBSTANTIATED. Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur. An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of the Complaint Report was given to Britney Phetbourom/Medtech.