Los Angeles, California — An 18-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department is facing felony charges after prosecutors allege he collected full disability benefits while engaging in physically demanding activities, including skydiving.
Christopher Brandon Carnahan, 43, of Norwalk, was charged Monday with two counts of felony insurance fraud, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
Prosecutors claim Carnahan exaggerated an on-duty injury from 2023 and collected taxpayer-funded disability benefits while participating in strenuous activities.
Alleged Injury and Disability Claim
Authorities say Carnahan reported injuring his left elbow on May 22, 2023, while on duty. He was subsequently placed on Temporary Totally Disabled (TTD) status.
Under TTD, injured officers are entitled to receive 100% of their base salary tax-free for up to one year, and then two-thirds of their salary if the disability continues.
Officials allege that while claiming to be completely disabled, Carnahan was engaging in activities inconsistent with his injury status.
Skydiving and Gym Activity
According to the District Attorney’s Office, Carnahan allegedly completed multiple skydives at Skydive Elsinore in Lake Elsinore, south of Los Angeles, during the period he was receiving full disability benefits.
Investigators also allege he was seen working out at a fitness center. Photos released by prosecutors appear to show Carnahan lifting dumbbells in a motion involving his elbows — the same area he claimed was injured.
“This case is about honesty and accountability,” Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said in a statement.
“Claiming to be temporarily totally disabled and collecting disability benefits intended for injured workers while engaging in physically demanding activities like skydiving is a crime.”
Hochman emphasized that Carnahan, as a sworn law enforcement officer, was fully aware of the legal standards governing such claims.
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Possible Penalties
Carnahan is currently being held on $100,000 bail. If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of up to six years in jail.
The LAPD has confirmed it is investigating the matter and will review Carnahan’s employment status pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings.
Ongoing Investigation
The case now moves through the court system as prosecutors seek to prove that Carnahan knowingly misrepresented his physical condition while collecting benefits.
Officials have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed.
Carnahan has not publicly entered a plea.
The allegations have sparked renewed attention on oversight of disability claims and accountability within public agencies.
What are your thoughts on this case and how disability claims should be monitored? Share your perspective respectfully in the comments below.
