South Lake Tahoe Cement Supply Company Under Investigation

Submitted by paula on Thu, 03/27/2014 - 10:37pm

Law enforcement officers served warrants Thursday at Sierra Tahoe Ready Mix on Highway 50 in South Lake Tahoe as well as a related residence as part of a fraud investigation into the issuance of false or fraudulent documents relating to government construction contracts.

Personnel from the South Lake Tahoe Police Department and El Dorado County District Attorney and Sheriff's Offices took in evidence as a result of the warrant.

The investigation started when City of South Lake Tahoe Public Works Engineers learned that the company was possibly issuing the documents. They then notified the South Lake Tahoe Police Department. Police Chief Brian Uhler requested District Attorney Vern Pierson assist in the case as it was apparent that the situation would have implications for City, County and State government entities.

The District Attorney assigned an investigator and an attorney, who have expertise in such fraud and "white collar" cases and it was requested that the District Attorney’s Office would lead the investigation of this potential fraud.

The City recommends customers of Sierra-Tahoe Ready Mix who may have relied on the quality of the concrete purchased from a certification by Sierra-Tahoe Ready Mix seek verification from an independent source.

“This is disturbing news for our community,” said City Manager Nancy Kerry. “The foundation of our community, literally, is in their hands. I commend the consulting firm and our staff engineers for bringing this to our immediate attention. The quick action of our Police Chief, police officers, and District Attorney’s Office ensured no further harm to the public.”

The investigation is continuing and decisions about a possible criminal prosecution will be made after the investigation is complete and all evidence is thoroughly assessed.

If anyone believes they may have been a victim of fraud, or has any information regarding this matter, please contact the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office at (530) 621-6484.