Asch Workers' Comp StrategyAt Asch Workers’ Comp Strategy, we focus on keeping employers and insurers ahead of the curve. This article looks at recent high-profile fraud cases, proposed legislative updates, and how emerging technology is reshaping the way we detect and prevent abuse in the workers’ compensation system.
Real Cases: Workers’ Compensation Fraud in the News
California: Former Police Officer Accused of $600K Fraud
In May 2025, former Westminster Police Officer Nicole Brown was charged with 15 felony counts for allegedly defrauding the workers’ compensation system out of more than $600,000 in benefits. Brown claimed post-concussion symptoms rendered her unable to work—yet investigators reportedly captured her skiing, running races, and attending Disneyland and music festivals.
According to the Associated Press:
“Despite claiming post-concussion symptoms that rendered her unable to work, Brown was allegedly seen skiing, running races, and attending Disneyland and music festivals.”
Her stepfather, attorney Peter Schuman, was also charged in connection with the scheme.
Further coverage:
People Magazine, May 22, 2025
Connecticut: State Trooper Faces Charges Over Alleged $8K Fraud
Jose Campos, a former Connecticut State Trooper, is facing charges for allegedly filing a false claim after reporting a back injury caused by a restroom door. According to court documents, inconsistencies in witness accounts and medical records led to serious questions about the legitimacy of his claim.
CT Insider reports:
“The arrest warrant alleges inconsistencies in witness accounts and medical documentation that raised questions about the legitimacy of the injury.”
Official release from the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice:
Press Release, June 17, 2025
Legislative Update: Connecticut Proposes Workers’ Comp Fraud Task Force
In February 2025, Connecticut lawmakers proposed forming a task force to combat workers' compensation fraud and promote transparency and compliance. The initiative was sparked by a growing number of fraud investigations.
From CT Insider:
““The task force would examine eligibility reporting rules and recommend steps to improve transparency and compliance.””
The Tech Revolution in Fraud Detection
AI & Predictive Analytics
Artificial intelligence is now playing a vital role in flagging questionable claims. Systems trained on large datasets can identify unusual claim patterns and cross-reference them with other sources, such as prior claims, treatment records, and even social media activity.
According to Conning Inc.:
“AI systems can now detect unusual claim patterns and cross-reference them with databases of medical history, claim history, and even social media activity.”
Social Media Surveillance Tools
Advanced software tools now mine public social media accounts to find evidence inconsistent with the claimant’s alleged disability. These tools are significantly faster and more affordable than traditional surveillance.
Blockchain and Real-Time Audits
Blockchain is being studied as a way to maintain tamper-proof claim records. Though not yet implemented in New York State’s workers’ compensation system, the potential is clear: greater data transparency and real-time auditing of billing, behavior, and reporting.
As this technology develops, it may one day allow insurers and employers to verify treatment histories and red-flag abuse with unprecedented efficiency.
About Us: Asch Workers’ Comp Strategy
We help New York employers and insurance companies reduce exposure, control costs, and implement best practices for navigating the complex workers’ compensation landscape. Whether you need strategic guidance, nurse case management, surveillance coordination, actuarial analysis, or OSHA compliance support—our experience is your asset.
This article contains references to original journalism from the Associated Press, CT Insider, PEOPLE Magazine, the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice, and Conning Inc. All quotes are credited and used under fair use for informational purposes, with original publication dates and source URLs provided.