Contractor Submitted at Least $5.5k in False Claims

Our latest investigation revealed that a sweeping services contractor submitted at least $5,500 in false claims to BART.  We found that the contractor billed for services that were either not performed or not performed according to contract terms. As a result, the contractor could face significant penalties and damages under the California False Claims Act, ranging from $505k to $993k.

Our investigative team found that trash and debris were left in parking areas after the contractor claimed to have completed sweeping services. After being presented with photographic evidence of our observations, the contractor admitted to not performing the services as contracted. They cited obstructions and a lack of contract monitoring as reasons, but the contract clearly required alternative cleaning methods for inaccessible areas and stipulated that contractors should perform their work in accordance with the contract terms.

This investigation underscores the importance of vigilant contract oversight to maintain public trust and ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately. We have recommended that BART recover the false claims, seek penalties, and terminate the contractor's agreement.

We encourage you to review the summary video and full report for detailed insights:

Thank you for your continued interest in our work. For access to all BART Office of the Inspector General reports, please visit our website at www.bart.gov/oig.

Sincerely,

Claudette Biemeret
Inspector General
Email: InspectorGeneral@bart.gov
Phone: 510-464-6141