| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: January 7, 2026
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Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer Issues Statement on Federal Charges
Filed Against Former Orange County Prosecutor and Current Orange County Judge Israel Claustro
for Defrauding California’s Workers’ Compensation Program
SANTA ANA, Calif. – Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer issued the following statement regarding the federal charges filed against former Orange County prosecutor and current Orange County Judge Israel Claustro for defrauding California’s workers’ compensation program:
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office fully cooperated with the federal government investigation into the illicit activities of former prosecutor Israel Claustro, including providing all requested documentation during the duration of the federal investigation. Claustro did not follow established OCDA office policy which requires approval of any outside employment, a procedure which is intended to safeguard against potential conflicts of interest. He betrayed his position of trust as a public servant in the most deceitful way by stealing public benefits from those who needed them the most, and he did so while masquerading as a warrior for truth and justice on behalf of the People of California.
Click here for full press release.
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