Couple Arrested for Cashing Deceased Man’s Workers’ Comp Checks

A New York man and his wife have been arrested for cashing workers’ compensation checks sent to the man’s deceased father, according to the New York State Insurance Department.

Police arrested Geoffrey Gabel, 40, and his wife, Kelly Gabel, 38, of North Second Street, Mechanicville, following an investigation by the department’s Frauds Bureau.

The Gabels are accused of cashing checks totaling more than $13,000 that had been sent to Geoffrey Gabel’s father following the father’s death in September 2008. An investigation was begun after a routine check by Crum & Forster Indemnity Company, a workers’ compensation insurer, revealed that the elder Gabel had died.

The Gables were charged with third degree grand larceny. They could be sentenced to up to seven years in prison if they are convicted. A hearing will be scheduled in Albany County Court.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney John Spencer.