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Department of
SOCIAL SERVICES

Community Care Licensing


COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT

Facility Number: 198600486
Report Date: 03/18/2025
Date Signed: 03/18/2025 03:06:54 PM

Substantiated


STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
GREATER LA AC/SC, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. ST 500
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754
This is an official report of an unannounced visit/investigation of a complaint received in our office on
03/11/2025 and conducted by Evaluator Bennette Pena
PUBLIC
COMPLAINT CONTROL NUMBER: 28-AS-20250311165642
FACILITY NAME:CHOICES R US - FAUSTFACILITY NUMBER:
198600486
ADMINISTRATOR:GILBERT CARDENASFACILITY TYPE:
735
ADDRESS:13019 FAUST AVETELEPHONE:
(562) 803-7969
CITY:DOWNEYSTATE: CAZIP CODE:
90242
CAPACITY:4CENSUS: 4DATE:
03/18/2025
UNANNOUNCEDTIME BEGAN:
10:16 AM
MET WITH:Gilbert Cardenas - Co-Administrator
Todkashane Lawson, Direct Support Professional II		TIME COMPLETED:
03:15 PM
ALLEGATION(S):
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Facility is not operating within staffing ratios.
Facility has an insufficient food supply.
INVESTIGATION FINDINGS:
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Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Bennette Pena conducted an unannounced 10-day complaint visit for
the above-mentioned allegations. LPA met with Todkashane Lawson, Direct Support Professional II (DSP II) and explained the purpose of the visit. At 11:00am, Co-Administrator, Gilbert Cardenas arrived and assisted LPA.
The investigation consisted of the following: LPA conducted a tour of the physical plant, reviewed and obtained copies of the Client & Staff Rosters, Staff schedule,Time sheet records (Feb 2025-Mar 2025), Staff in-service training for Mandated Reporting, Zero Tolerance Policy, Whistleblower and Medication Training. LPA also obtained copies of Client #1 (C1)-Client #4 (C4) Medication Administration Record (MAR) for (Feb. 2025-Mar 2025). LPA interviewed Staff #1 (S1), Staff #4 (S4), Client #3 (C3)-Client #4 (C4) telephonically and Staff #2 (S2)-Staff #3(S3), Client #1 (C1)-Client #2 (C2) in person, LPA also interviewed South Central LA Regional Center's QA.
*****CONTINUED ON LIC 9099-C*****
Substantiated
Estimated Days of Completion:
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM MANAGER: David Sicairos
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST: Bennette Pena
LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years.
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 1 of 5
Control Number 28-AS-20250311165642
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
GREATER LA AC/SC, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. ST 500
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754
FACILITY NAME: CHOICES R US - FAUST
FACILITY NUMBER: 198600486
VISIT DATE: 03/18/2025
NARRATIVE
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The investigation revealed the following:

In regards to the allegation: “Facility is not operating within staffing ratios.” It is alleged that a staff cut staff hours which leave the facility without staffing ratio. (3) out of (4) staff interviewed corroborated the allegation and stated that the facility is short staffed. S3-S4 reported that they often work alone with (4) clients. Staff interviewed indicated that the staffing shortage fluctuates. Staff interviewed also stated that the facility hires staff through an outside employment agency to fulfill their staffing ratio requirements. Staff interviewed confirmed that the Regional Center mandates a ratio of 1 staff member per 2 clients, but this is not being met because of inadequate staffing. A representative from the Regional Center verified the staff's claims and is currently investigating the allegation. Some interviewed clients corroborated the allegation and stated that the number of staff available varies, with only 1 staff member typically present. During today’s visit (03/18/2025), S3 confirmed that there was only (1) staff member working with (4) clients at the facility from 6am to 10am. Based on LPA’s observations, interviews, and record reviews, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED.

In regards to the allegation: "Facility has an insufficient food supply." It is alleged that there's not enough food in the home, one day there is the next few days it's empty. (3) out of (4) staff members interviewed confirmed the allegation. S3-S4 indicated that the facility frequently runs low on food because the staff responsible fails to purchase food supplies in a timely manner. Staff members interviewed mentioned that they make do with whatever is left in the pantry or refrigerator to prepare meals for clients. During the visit, LPA noticed insufficient food supply and did not find the necessary quantity of food for the number of clients in the facility. One of the staff members brought food supplies while LPA was present in the facility. LPA examined the most recent food receipt dated (03/07/2025), which did not validate the claim that groceries are purchased weekly. Clients interviewed also reported that there are times when they run out of food and consume leftovers. Based on LPA’s observations, interviews, and record reviews, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED.

Deficiencies cited on the attached LIC 9099D.

Exit interview conducted and a copy of this report was provided to Todkashane Lawson, Direct Support Professional II.

NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM MANAGER: David Sicairos
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST: Bennette Pena
LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 2 of 5
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
GREATER LA AC/SC, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. ST 500
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754
This is an official report of an unannounced visit/investigation of a complaint received in our office on
03/11/2025 and conducted by Evaluator Bennette Pena
PUBLIC
COMPLAINT CONTROL NUMBER: 28-AS-20250311165642

FACILITY NAME:CHOICES R US - FAUSTFACILITY NUMBER:
198600486
ADMINISTRATOR:GILBERT CARDENASFACILITY TYPE:
735
ADDRESS:13019 FAUST AVETELEPHONE:
(562) 803-7969
CITY:DOWNEYSTATE: CAZIP CODE:
90242
CAPACITY:4CENSUS: 4DATE:
03/18/2025
UNANNOUNCEDTIME BEGAN:
10:16 AM
MET WITH:Co-Administrator, Gilbert Cardenas
Todkashane Lawson, Direct Support Professional II		TIME COMPLETED:
03:15 PM
ALLEGATION(S):
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Administrator is coaching staff to not discuss allegations.
Staff are mismanaging client’s medications.
INVESTIGATION FINDINGS:
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Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Bennette Pena conducted an unannounced 10-day complaint visit for
the above-mentioned allegations. LPA met with Todkashane Lawson, Direct Support Professional II (DSP II) and explained the purpose of the visit. At 11:00am, Co-Administrator, Gilbert Cardenas arrived and assisted LPA.
The investigation consisted of the following: LPA conducted a tour of the physical plant, reviewed and obtained copies of the Client & Staff Rosters, Staff schedule,Time sheet records (Feb 2025-Mar 2025), Staff in-service training for Mandated Reporting, Zero Tolerance Policy, Whistleblower and Medication Training. LPA also obtained copies of Client #1 (C1)-Client #4 (C4) Medication Administration Record (MAR) for (Feb. 2025-Mar 2025). LPA interviewed Staff #1 (S1), Staff #4 (S4), Client #3 (C3)-Client #4 (C4) telephonically and Staff #2 (S2)-Staff #3(S3), Client #1 (C1)-Client #2 (C2) in person, LPA also interviewed South Central LA Regional Center's QA.
*****CONTINUED ON LIC 9099-C*****
Unsubstantiated
Estimated Days of Completion:
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM MANAGER: David Sicairos
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST: Bennette Pena
LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years.
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 3 of 5
Control Number 28-AS-20250311165642
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
GREATER LA AC/SC, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. ST 500
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754
FACILITY NAME: CHOICES R US - FAUST
FACILITY NUMBER: 198600486
VISIT DATE: 03/18/2025
NARRATIVE
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The investigation revealed the following:

In regards to the allegation: "Administrator is coaching staff to not discuss allegations." It is alleged that a staff coached other staff to not say anything about the allegations because if the consumers get taken away, all staff would lose their jobs. No other information provided. Interviewed staff denied the allegation and stated that they are unaware of the specifics of the allegation(s). Staff interviewed indicated that a staff is currently being investigated but were uncertain about the details. Staff indicated that they have neither heard nor witnessed any staff coaching others to avoid discussion of allegations, as they do not even know what the allegations entail. Clients interviewed cannot corroborate the allegation as they are not aware of any allegations against anyone at the facility. Based on statements and interviews conducted with clients and staff, there was not enough supportive evidence to corroborate the allegation.
Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED.

In regards to the allegation: "Staff are mismanaging client’s medications." It is alleged that the staff has flushed medication in the toilet weeks ago before investigation because staff found the pills in bubble pack still and these were not administered to consumers. Staff interviewed cannot corroborate the allegation. S3 stated that she oversees the medication in the facility and has neither seen nor heard of any staff flushing medications down the toilet. (3) out of (4) staff interviewed indicated that medications are given to the clients, and when medications are discontinued, they are stored in a sharps disposal container (red box) and disposed of through the pharmacy. Staff members interviewed stated that their procedure for disposing of medication requires that (2) staff members be present to complete a medication destruction record and provide the medications to the pharmacy for disposal. Interviews conducted with clients indicated that they have not missed their medications and receive them in a timely manner. Clients interviewed indicated that they have not seen any staff flush medications in the toilet. According to the medication reviewed during today's visit, the facility has properly disposed of expired and/or discontinued medications. Based on statements and interviews conducted with clients and staff as well as reviewed files and documentation, there was not enough supportive evidence to corroborate the allegation.
Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED.

Exit interview conducted and a copy of this report was provided to Todkashane Lawson, Direct Support Professional II.
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM MANAGER: David Sicairos
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST: Bennette Pena
LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 4 of 5
Control Number 28-AS-20250311165642
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)		CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION
GREATER LA AC/SC, 1000 CORPORATE CNTR DR. ST 500
MONTEREY PARK, CA 91754

FACILITY NAME: CHOICES R US - FAUST
FACILITY NUMBER: 198600486
DEFICIENCY INFORMATION FOR THIS PAGE:
VISIT DATE: 03/18/2025
Deficiency Type
POC Due Date /
Section Number
DEFICIENCIES
PLAN OF CORRECTIONS(POCs)
Type B
03/21/2025
Section Cited
CCR
85065.5(a)(1)
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85065.5 Day Staff-Client Ratio...(a) Whenever a client who relies upon others to perform all activities of daily living is present, the following minimum staffing requirements shall be met: (1) For Regional Center clients, staffing shall be maintained as specified by the Regional Center but no less than one direct care staff to three such clients.
This requirement is not met as evidenced by:
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Co-Administrator agrees to provide additional staff to meet the 1:2 ratio mandated by South Central LA Regional Center. A copy of the current/updated LIC 500 and staff schedule will be provided to CCL/LPA by POC due date.
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Based on interviews, record reviews and observation, the facility has been operating as a 1:4 ratio due to insufficient staffing which poses a potential health & safety risk to clients in care.
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Type B
03/21/2025
Section Cited
CCR
85076(d)(1)
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85076 Food Service ..(d)The licensee shall meet the following food supply and storage requirements: (1)Supplies of staple nonperishable foods for a minimum of one week and fresh perishable foods for a minimum of two days shall be maintained on the premises.
This requirement is not met as evidenced by:
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Co-administrator agrees to maintain at least a supply of staple nonperishable foods for a minimum of one week and fresh perishable foods for a minimum of two days shall be maintained on the premises and send the weekly food receipt for the next 2 weeks to CCL/LPA.
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Based on interviews, record reviews and observation, the facility did not meet the food supply requirements and did not maintain 7-day non perishables and 2-day fresh perishable foods on the premises which poses a potential health & safety risk to clients in care.
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Failure to correct the cited deficiency(ies), on or before the Plan of Correction (POC) due date, may result in a civil penalty assessment.
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM MANAGER: David Sicairos
NAME OF LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST: Bennette Pena
LICENSING PROGRAM ANALYST SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my appeal rights as explained and received.
FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE:

DATE: 03/18/2025
LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)
Page: 5 of 5