ETHICS COMMISSION IMPOSES FINES TOTALING $32,500

The Ethics Commission resolved three enforcement cases at its meeting today, by unanimously approving stipulated orders and imposing fines totaling $32,500. The orders address violations of the City’s governmental ethics and lobbying laws, which are designed to help ensure fair, equitable, and transparent government.

Ian Metrose (Metrose), the former Senior Vice President of Talent Relations and Special Events for CBS Broadcasting, Inc., admitted to aiding and abetting the disclosure of confidential City information related to a Los Angeles Police Department complaint. Metrose was fined the maximum penalty of $10,000.

In addition, Service Workers International Union—United Service Workers West (SEIU) and Christian Ramirez (Ramirez), the Director of Policy for SEIU, admitted that they failed to comply with the City’s lobbying registration and reporting requirements. Ramirez failed to register as a lobbyist for 2023, and both he and SEIU failed to file disclosure reports for that year. SEIU was fined $10,000, and Ramirez was fined $12,500.

“These cases underscore the Ethics Commission’s commitment to transparent and impartial government,” said Jeffery Daar, the commission’s president. “Whether it is the disclosure of confidential information or failing to disclose lobbying information, those who fail to comply with the law will be held accountable.”

Additional details regarding each case are provided through the meeting agenda.  All fines levied by the Ethics Commission are paid to the City’s general fund. Approved enforcement orders can be viewed and searched through the Ethics Commission’s Public Data Portal.