City Auditor Alleges Retaliation Over Fraud Investigation Claims

During a recent city council meeting in Ontario, California, Council Member Valencia led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation from Assistant Pastor Juan Velez of Montecito Baptist Church. The meeting transitioned into a public comment segment, where residents were invited to voice their concerns within a two-minute time limit.

One of the most notable speakers was Brad Newman, the former city auditor, who raised serious allegations against the city’s leadership. Newman claimed he faced retaliation after reporting that city executives, including City Manager Scott Ochoa, pressured him to violate professional audit standards. He posed a series of pointed questions to the council, questioning the integrity of city operations and the potential for ongoing fraud. Newman expressed concern over the lack of transparency regarding arbitration proceedings related to his termination, urging council members to attend these hearings to understand the situation better.

The mayor acknowledged the challenges of addressing complex issues within the limited time frame of public comments, suggesting that groups of speakers could consolidate their remarks for more effective communication. The meeting highlighted significant tensions regarding governance and accountability within the city, as residents seek clarity and assurance from their elected officials.