Workers nationwide, including in California, are often the victims of workplace injuries. Knowing that their employers provide workers’ compensation insurance that will assist with medical expenses and lost wages may provide some peace of mind. Unfortunately, some employees take advantage of the benefits by filing fraudulent workers’ compensation claims.
A woman in another state is facing multiple felony charges related to fraudulent insurance claims. After a joint investigation by her state’s insurance fund and the police, it is alleged that she claimed state benefits from August 2010 through November 2015 for disability. During this time she was allegedly also employed in a paid position.
Investigators alleged the defendant collected more than $146,000 in state benefits for her falsely claimed disability. The charges against her include three Class C second-degree felonies for insurance fraud, grand larceny and workers’ compensation fraudulent practices. Also included is one first degree Class E felony for falsifying business records. After her arraignment, she was allowed to go free on her own recognizance. The date of her next appearance is unknown.
California business owners are always at risk of fraudulent workers’ compensation claims that can cause their insurance premiums to be increased. Bottom line is, employee fraud can have a devastating impact on the financial stability of a company. An excessive number of claims from injured workers can also compromise a company in obtaining contracts. Some business owners choose to utilize the services of experienced workers’ compensation defense attorneys to protect them against such crimes. Attorneys who focus on identifying fraudulent claims may be able to limit the adverse consequences and hold those guilty of fraud accountable.
Source: hudsonvalleynewsnetwork.com, “Rhinebeck Woman Arrested for Insurance Fraud, Grand Larceny“, Kathy Welsh, Nov. 17, 2015
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