A group of individuals has been arrested for allegedly advertising construction services in the Pacific Palisades area, particularly in regions affected by the recent wildfires. These men reportedly placed bids totaling up to $1.27 million for various construction projects without having the necessary contractor’s licenses, according to the local district attorney’s office.
Details of the Arrests
Among those arrested are Luis Perez Silva, 45; Antonio Herman Perez, 44; Santiago Ismael Mejia Urena, 44; Jecil Cruz-Herrera, 33; Raymond Joshua Castorena, 33; and Luis Mateo Perez Lopez, 27. They began promoting their services in response to the devastating fires that ravaged the Palisades in 2025, showcasing an alarming trend of unlicensed contracting following natural disasters.
In April, authorities from California’s Contractors State License Board highlighted the lack of proper licensing through their investigations into online advertisements. These ads failed to display a contractor license number, prompting undercover agents to pose as clients seeking construction and demolition work for an accessory dwelling unit in the affected areas.
Legal Consequences and Implications
Upon closer examination, investigators confirmed that none of the arrested individuals held valid contractor licenses or had active applications with the state board. They collectively submitted illegal bids for construction work, bringing significant risks to potential clients, including issues with payment, construction safety, and future real estate transactions.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized the dangers of hiring unlicensed contractors. He pointed out that this not only leaves homeowners vulnerable to financial exploitation but also raises serious labor justice issues. Currently, five of the men arrested could face prison sentences of up to three years, along with fines reaching $10,000. Castorena faces stiffer penalties due to previous allegations against him, which may result in a maximum of six years in prison.
As the legal proceedings move forward, Castorena, Mejia Urena, and Perez Lopez have pleaded not guilty, with preliminary hearings scheduled. Other defendants will face arraignment soon as the case unfolds.
