Well there dear readers, we made it to another Friday! What better way to end another week than with a post on workers’ compensation fraud?
Well, in this case, it’s only alleged fraud. My long-time readers will recall that your humble blogger doesn’t like to name names when there has been no conviction.
But, even the fact that charges have been filed can provide an educational moment for us in the workers’ compensation world.
As alleged, the criminal defendant committed workers’ compensation fraud going back several years. Some of the related news reports allege up to $500,000 in fraudulently received benefits, and, of course, there was the cost of the investigation itself, which included several hours of surveillance and obtaining and reviewing medical reports.
Let’s just say, hypothetically, that there is some guilt on the part of the criminal defendant – exaggerating symptoms to receive TD and medical benefits or lighter work duties, what have you. What’s the best defense for employers when this happens? In this case, the alleged fraudster was a former correctional deputy in the employ of Tehama County.
Well, the reason that there was an investigation is that a source within the Sherriff’s department noticed the defendant’s activities and reported them as she was out on industrial leave at the time.
Sometimes we catch fraud by a gut feeling or intuition that tells us to conduct sub rosa. When that gut feeling isn’t there, however, co-workers, employees, and honest community members can often be the cape-less heroes in spotting and reporting workers’ compensation fraud.
Certainly, we should let justice take its course and see if there will be a guilty plea, a conviction, or an acquittal. However, whether the criminal defendant in this case is guilty or not, this instance serves as a reminder for us all to remain vigilant and investigate leads when they come our way. If those involved in law enforcement can engage in actions that give rise to charges of fraud… who couldn’t?
Have a great weekend, dear readers!