An Ohio construction worker has been charged for defrauding the state’s workers’ compensation system after allegedly collecting disability benefits while secretly operating a private contracting business. According to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, the individual claimed he was unable to work due to a severe back injury sustained on the job — while continuing to perform physically demanding labor for paying clients.
Prosecutors allege the worker received temporary total disability benefits for an extended period, certifying repeatedly that he was unable to perform any work, including self‑employment. During the same time, investigators say he was advertising home renovation and repair services online, providing estimates, completing projects, and accepting cash payments from customers across multiple counties.
The case unfolded after a routine compliance review flagged inconsistencies between the claimant’s benefit certifications and business activity tied to his identity. Records showed an active business registration, recurring customer payments, and online advertisements posted while the worker was receiving benefits. Surveillance later documented him lifting heavy materials, operating power tools, climbing ladders, and managing job sites — activities that directly contradicted the physical limitations reported by his treating physician.
Investigators also reviewed social media posts and customer communications that placed the worker at job sites on dates when he had certified he was unable to work in any capacity. In some instances, timestamps and location data aligned precisely with benefit payment periods.
Authorities estimate the individual unlawfully collected more than $120,000 in workers’ compensation benefits. He now faces felony charges related to workers’ compensation fraud, theft, and making false statements to obtain benefits.
Officials say the case highlights the importance of integrating claims data with employment, business, and income records to identify discrepancies early. While workers’ compensation benefits play a critical role in supporting legitimately injured employees, agencies stress that deliberate misrepresentation undermines the integrity of the system and diverts resources from those who truly need them.
Today’s Fraud of the Day is based on reporting from the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office regarding workers’ compensation fraud.
