Transgender center receiving death threats in confusion with Queer Works fraud case

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) -- Community reaction is pouring in after the delay in the case against former Queer Works CEO Jacob Rostovsky. He faces 53 felony counts stemming from an investigation into a Palm Springs universal basic program.

According to documents from the Riverside County District Attorney’s office, Rostovsky’s defense team filed a motion for mental health diversion, claiming he was mentally ill at the time of the alleged crimes.

CEO and founder of the Transgender Health and Wellness Center, Thomi Clinton says their office was receiving death threats because people kept getting them confused with Queer Works.

"We had to say our names are not even similar, but they don't hear that," said Clinton.

She says the delay to the case doesn't make sense, "All trans people have anxiety that doesn't excuse you from doing criminal conduct, especially when people are calling you all the time saying, I'm about to lose my place, Clinton said.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.