Investigation initiated by Caltrans into its employee's conduct
Headline: Caltrans Investigates Alleged Misconduct at Monterey Retirement Party
In a surprising turn of events, Caltrans, the California Department of Transportation, is currently investigating a retirement party that took place at its Monterey facility. The incident, which occurred on July 10, 2025, during work hours, has raised concerns due to reported misconduct involving alcohol consumption, the presence of a hired stripper, and employees allegedly throwing money at the entertainer.
Some employees were even seen drinking while on the clock and driving company vehicles under the influence. As a result, Caltrans has initiated disciplinary actions against 12 employees involved in the incident. Ten employees received termination notices, while two received suspension notices, effective from July 23. These employees have the opportunity to appeal the disciplinary actions before they take effect.
The retiree for whom the party was held was not disciplined. Caltrans is taking the allegations very seriously, emphasizing that this behavior violates the department’s values and ethical standards. The agency launched the investigation promptly after receiving a tip letter that detailed the party’s misconduct.
Caltrans manages over 50,000 miles of California's highway and freeway lanes, provides inter-city rail services, and permits over 400 public-use airports. The department carries out its mission with six primary programs: Aeronautics, Highway Transportation, Mass Transportation, Transportation Planning, Administration, and the Equipment Service Center.
In a statement, Matthew Rocco, Caltrans spokesman, stated, "This behavior has no place in the department and stands in direct opposition to our values and ethical standards."
The investigation is ongoing, and more details may be released as the investigation progresses. Caltrans is committed to maintaining a professional and ethical work environment and upholding the trust of the public it serves.
[1] Caltrans Statement on Monterey Retirement Party Investigation [2] Local News: Caltrans Investigates Retirement Party Allegations [3] Caltrans Employees Placed on Leave Following Misconduct Allegations
- The misconduct at Caltrans' Monterey retirement party, involving finance irregularities with money being thrown and the presence of a stripper, is disrupting the industry's reputation, as it violates the department's principles, especially since it occurred during working hours and included employees driving company vehicles under the influence.
- Despite the investigation into the alleged misconduct at the Monterey retirement party, Caltrans remains dedicated to maintaining a professional and ethical work environment in its business dealings, including finance and transportation, and upholding the public's trust it serves, as shown by its six primary programs: Aeronautics, Highway Transportation, Mass Transportation, Transportation Planning, Administration, and the Equipment Service Center.