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U.S. Attorney Criticizes California AG for Fraud Oversight

4/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bill Essayli, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for California, criticized Rob Bonta, California Attorney General, for failing to combat fraud.
Essayli said Bonta's office allowed a $200 million fraud scheme to flourish after fraud-prevention measures were suspended.
He cited Paul Richard Randall, who billed Medi-Cal for unnecessary drugs, causing significant losses.
Bonta defended his office, noting a long history of investigating fraud against government programs.

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Story summary

Bill Essayli, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for California, criticized Rob Bonta, California Attorney General, for failing to combat fraud.
Essayli said Bonta's office allowed a $200 million fraud scheme to flourish after fraud-prevention measures were suspended.
He cited Paul Richard Randall, who billed Medi-Cal for unnecessary drugs, causing significant losses.
Bonta defended his office, noting a long history of investigating fraud against government programs.