TEHAMA COUNTY QUARRY OWNER FINED IN FRAUD CASE

Investigators uncover scheme to falsify load weights

SACRAMENTO, July 23, 2002-Investigators from the California Department of Food and Agriculture's Division of Measurement Standards obtained key information in a fraud case that recently concluded with a $33,000 fine and probation for Carl J. Woods, owner of the Vina quarry in Tehama County. Seven truck drivers were also charged in the case.

In September of 2000, a multi-agency investigative team consisting of CDFA, the California Highway Patrol and the federal Department of Defense seized eight trucks carrying riprap rock for delivery to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which uses the material for flood control projects. When the trucks were weighed, the investigators found that the loads weighed less than the totals stated on certification documents, which would have resulted in the federal government being overcharged.

"This case is another example of the importance of the work done by our Division of Measurement Standards," said CDFA Secretary William (Bill) J. Lyons, Jr. "Our agency is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of weights and measures throughout California, so that businesses and consumers are confident that they're getting what they pay for."

CDFA investigators routinely conduct both open and undercover investigations to make sure that weights and measures remain accurate. The Division of Measurement Standards oversees functions ranging from gas pump operations to checkout scanners at grocery stores.




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