Ex-state trooper charged with comp fraud

A former state trooper has been arrested and charged with fraudulently collecting more than $8,000 in workers compensation benefits while employed by the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.

Jose Campos, 32, is charged with one count of first-degree larceny and making a fraudulent claim for benefits, both felonies, according to the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice.

An arrest warrant said Mr. Campos misrepresented the circumstances of his claimed injury. He said that while on duty, he was knocked to the ground after being struck on his lower back by a restroom door and that he was hit multiple times as others attempted to enter the restroom. Other witnesses reportedly disputed these claims.

Mr. Campos received temporary total disability status and wage-replacement benefits of $8,341, the state said.

Mr. Campos surrendered at a police department and was released on a $10,000 non-surety bond.

Mr. Campos faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $10,000 for the larceny charge, and he could receive up to 20 years and a fine of $15,000 for the fraudulent claim charge.

Work Comp Central is a sister publication of Business Insurance. More stories here.