Javier Hernandez says it's outrageous that he and several others who worked security on Black Friday last year still haven't been paid.
“It’s been a really long time,” Hernandez says. “It’s unbelievable.”
He says the group of security guards showed up at the East Hills WalMart the night of Thanksgiving and worked for eleven hours. Hernandez was told Langner Security, the company who hired him, would mail him a paycheck for at least $120. But, one year later, he says he still hasn't seen one penny.
“It's actually been really frustrating because usually it's quick. But, if it takes a while you actually think they're forgetting about it," he says.
Lauren Carrin worked security that night and feels the same way – duped.
“A year later, you're still trying to figure out where's the money at?” Carrin says. “We did the time, but we still haven't gotten paid for our services."
Eighteen of the unpaid guards filed a wage claim against Langner Security owner H. William Bramble. The company is based in Long Beach and Fresno. 17 News spoke to Bramble in February. He said the guards were not immediately paid because his managers did not collect all their addresses.
When 17 News tried to reach Bramble again Monday, his number said it was not in service.
The guards had a hearing at the California Labor Commissioner's office in July, but say Langner Security never showed up. After months of waiting, Hernandez received an award letter from the Commissioner's Office that says instead of $126, he's due $2,130 in damages and penalties.
"The good thing about the Labor Board is that they're helping us out,” he says. “All the penalties really added up."
Carrin was told she would too receive a hefty compensation check through the Labor Board.
“It feels good to get anything beyond what was expected," she says.
Hernandez and Carrin said the downside was that they were told it still could take years before they receive any payment. Both say they will not be working security on Black Friday this year.
California’s Department of Consumer Affairs says Langner Security is still in business and has a valid state license until 2014.
