San Jose, CA — A care facility employee in San Jose has been awarded over $40,000 after being wrongfully terminated for reporting unsanitary and unsafe working conditions, according to a May 6 announcement from the California Labor Commissioner’s Office.
Jessica Delgado, a longtime staff member at a mental health care facility operated by Ali Baba Corp. (doing business as Riviera Living), raised the alarm after noticing a sharp decline in hygiene and safety following a change in management. According to the Labor Commissioner’s Office, Delgado documented serious issues such as filthy bathrooms, a roach-infested kitchen, and neglected resident safety concerns.
Despite repeatedly emailing management, her complaints went unanswered. When she warned that she would contact the Labor Commissioner, the company suspended and later fired her—actions the agency deemed illegal retaliation.
“This case progressed swiftly because Ms. Delgado knew her rights, took prompt action, and courageously spoke out against unlawful working conditions,” said Labor Commissioner Lilia García-Brower. “Retaliation is a serious violation of the law, and we remain firmly committed to holding employers accountable and ensuring workers receive the wages and penalties they are rightly owed.”
Delgado also reported that her employer had denied her legally required meal breaks. She later filed a formal retaliation complaint with the Labor Commissioner’s Office.
“I spoke up because I believed residents deserved better and workers deserved to be treated fairly,” Delgado said. “This outcome shows that standing up for what’s right matters and that workers have protections under the law.”
In November 2024, the Labor Commissioner cited Ali Baba Corp. and its owner for $40,000 in penalties related to Delgado’s unlawful suspension and firing. After the company failed to appeal, the penalties were entered as final judgments in superior court.
The office then issued bank levies and successfully recovered the full amount of $40,460—including interest—which has now been paid to Delgado.
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