Data Cross Match Nets Workers’ Comp Fraud Conviction in Ohio

An Ohio woman pleaded guilty to fraud after her name appeared in a cross match of data shared by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, indicating she was breaking the law. Renee Washington has been ordered to repay more than $16,000 she was paid while working in violation of the benefits she was receiving after sustaining a workplace injury.

“Our investigators are able to learn a lot just digging into data we have within BWC, and data we receive through cross matches like this,” said BWC Administrator/CEO Steve Buehrer. “As careful someone may be about hiding their work activities, there are a number of other possible ways we can identify the red flags of fraud.”

BWC’s Special Investigations Department (SID) began investigating after receiving a cross match from the Department of Job and Family Services indicating Washington was paid wages by A-1 Health Care and Concordia Care.

Investigators found Washington continued employment as a part-time home health aide with A-1 Nursing Care while receiving Temporary Total Disability and Living Maintenance benefits. Washington admitted to her work activity and cooperated with the investigation.

The Ohio Industrial Commission issued a finding of fraud in February and Washington appeared in a Franklin County courtroom July 18. She pleaded guilty to one felony count of workers’ compensation fraud and was sentenced to five years community control. She also must pay $16,202.79 in restitution.

Source: Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation