LAPD Officer Charged with Insurance Fraud for Skydiving While on Disability Leave
LAPD Officer Charged with Insurance Fraud for Allegedly Faking Injury
LOS ANGELES – Officer Christopher Brandon Carnahan of the Los Angeles Police Department faces felony charges after allegedly collecting disability benefits for an injury while reportedly participating in activities such as skydiving and working out.
On Monday, Carnahan, 43, was charged with two counts of felony insurance fraud. According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, he reported a left elbow injury sustained on May 22, 2023, while on duty, which led to his designation as Temporary Totally Disabled (TTD). This classification is intended for individuals unable to perform any job duties due to injury.
Investigators assert that despite his TTD status, Carnahan was actively engaged in high-intensity activities. Prosecutors claim he completed frequent skydiving jumps at Skydive Elsinore in Lake Elsinore and maintained a regular workout regimen at a local gym. Currently, he is being held on a $100,000 bail.
District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, stating, "This case is about honesty and accountability. Claiming to be temporarily totally disabled and collecting disability benefits intended for injured workers while engaging in physically demanding activities like skydiving is a crime. This is an officer who knows the law and understands the standards he is sworn to uphold."
Carnahan’s arraignment date has yet to be determined, and as the legal process unfolds, the LAPD is expected to assess his employment status based on the outcome of the proceedings. If convicted, Carnahan could face a maximum sentence of six years in state prison.
