wage theft

A new California law allows Los Angeles County to prosecute labor traffickers and wage thieves in jurisdictions where workers lived, where employment agreements were formed, where work occurred, or where the business operated. Signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the law (AB 1583) takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.

Andrea Marshall, owner of Salon 1884 in the Garment District, was indicted for allegedly stealing $54,000 in wages and forcing employees to work 12-17 hour shifts. Prosecutors claim she refused to pay workers, offered clothing instead of money, and exploited an immigrant workforce by delaying payments for housing and living expenses.