A New Paltz police officer shows that no one is above the law when it comes to prosecuting for workers compensation fraud. The officer turned herself in on several felony charges related to filing false workers compensation benefits claims to the tune of $50,000.
Like many cases of workers compensation fraud, the perpetrators do not typically get away with committing these crimes without consequence. There are increased efforts by insurance companies and employers to stop these fraudulent claims as soon as possible.
More investigators are making a living by following around workers compensation recipients who have proven their employers need to be suspicious of their motives. This is especially true in light of the state of the nation’s economy with more people struggling to make ends meet living paycheck to paycheck.
It may be tempting to think you can cheat the system. But in doing so you also cheat the honest workers who have been hurt on the job through no fault of their own. Additionally, the risks of being found guilty of committing workers compensation fraud only adds to your financial worries. The officer in New Paltz is being indicted on several felony charges stemming from one incident. Not only will she face the legal fees, she will also face living part of her life in jail.
Workers compensation fraud is increasing and for those who are honest about their injuries, it certainly can affect how they receive benefits. Intentionally defrauding the system will have much stiffer consequences than your inability to make monthly bill payments.
