A high-paid Los Angeles County Fireplace Division captain allegedly faked a office damage and solid docs’ notes to rake in additional than $25,000 in incapacity funds, prosecutors mentioned.
Thomas Merryman, 45, is accused of pocketing the massive payouts after claiming he was harm on the job when he wasn’t even working, in line with the Los Angeles County District Legal professional’s Workplace.
Prosecutors mentioned the alleged fraudster solid the names of a fellow fireplace captain and physician on bogus paperwork to attain long-term incapacity advantages from Colonial Life & Accident Insurance coverage Firm.
Merryman, believed to stay in Georgetown, Texas, swindled the insurance coverage firm out of greater than $25,000 — all whereas pulling in over $291,000 in wage and advantages in 2024, public data present.
“Faux incapacity claims won’t be tolerated beneath my watch, particularly by first responders charged with protecting our county protected,” District Legal professional Nathan Hochman mentioned in a press release, including that his workplace is working straight with fireplace officers to “root out fraud.”
“False healthcare claims increase insurance coverage premiums and make it tougher for individuals with official work accidents to assert advantages. My message to public servants who abuse the system is obvious: We’re watching you.”
Information confirmed he banked a $153,714 wage and $112,687 in advantages, plus additional time and different pay.
It’s unclear when the fireplace captain submitted the fraudulent declare or whether or not he’s nonetheless on the job. The LAFD didn’t instantly reply to The Publish’s request for remark.
Merryman was charged Friday with insurance coverage fraud, false personation and two counts of forgery.
He faces as much as 5 years behind bars, if convicted, prosecutors mentioned.
Merryman is scheduled to be arraigned on Sept. 9.
