LA DA raids Huntington Park sites in 'Operation Dirty Pond' probe

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced Wednesday that members of his Bureau of Investigation executed search warrants at 11 locations in connection with an ongoing public corruption probe regarding a Huntington Park aquatic center in "Operation Dirty Pond."

"My office is committed to ensuring that public officials uphold the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and transparency," Hochman said in a news release. "When concerns arise about the use of public funds or the actions of those in office, it is our duty to investigate thoroughly and protect the public's trust.

"I want to commend our dedicated prosecutors and investigators for their diligent work on this complex case. Their unwavering commitment to justice ensures that no one -- regardless of their position or title -- is above the law," he continued.

The investigation has been ongoing since November 2022 and stems from possible misuse of millions in public funds to build the center at Salt Lake Park, the news release said.

According to the release, bureau investigators conducted searches at Huntington Park City Hall, Huntington Park Public Works, Salt Lake Park and the private residences of city officials and construction firm owners.

"Numerous items were seized from each location including public records maintained by the City of Huntington Park, financial paperwork, computers, tablets, cell phones and various forms of electronic equipment," the release read.

The news comes days after Huntington Park Councilmember Esmerelda Castillo sued the city council for vacating her seat, allegedly in retaliation for reporting sexual harassment. The council had claimed that the removal was due to Castillo maintaining a residency outside the city.

It was unclear on Wednesday if Hochman's raid was related in any way to Castillo's removal.