California Attorney General Rob Bonta has initiated legal action against Sweetwater Care, a San Diego-based skilled nursing facility operator. The lawsuit claims that Sweetwater violated California’s Unfair Competition Law by failing to meet minimum staffing requirements in its 19 facilities across the state, resulting in harm to patients.
Attorney General Bonta stated, “Sweetwater and its skilled nursing facilities violated the law and betrayed the trust of communities by failing to safeguard the health and safety of its residents. This is simply unacceptable.” He emphasized the role of the California Department of Justice in protecting patient well-being, adding, “With today’s lawsuit, we are holding Sweetwater accountable for breaking the law by understaffing its facilities and leaving residents vulnerable to serious neglect and injuries.”
The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA) within the California Department of Justice conducted an investigation into Sweetwater’s practices. The findings indicate that from 2020 to 2024, Sweetwater consistently operated below required staffing levels over 14,126 times. This lack of adequate staffing led to preventable neglect and injuries among patients, including unassessed fractures, head trauma incidents unnoticed by staff, severe pressure injuries, delayed medical responses, and patients left unattended in soiled conditions.
The lawsuit seeks civil monetary penalties and injunctive relief against Sweetwater. It also calls for measures such as appointing a receiver or compliance monitor to ensure adherence to legal standards. Under California’s Unfair Competition Law, each violation could incur a penalty up to $2,500, potentially doubled if involving senior citizens or disabled individuals.
DMFEA aims to protect elderly and dependent adults from abuse and fraud while safeguarding Medi-Cal program integrity. It receives significant funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services alongside state contributions.
A copy of the filed complaint will be available once it is accessible.
