June 16, 2015
Las Vegas, NV - Nevada Attorney General Adam Paul Laxalt
announced that Michael Joseph Bricker, 49, of Las Vegas, pleaded guilty to a
category “D” felony for his role in fraudulently obtaining workers’
compensation. The fraud was committed between March 18, 2013 and May 2, 2014,
and discovered following the receipt of his final payment of benefits and
closure of the claim.
Bricker fraudulently filed a workers’ compensation claim alleging he suffered
a major back injury, while working at a local Dunkin’ Donuts store. Based on his
misrepresentations during the claim process, he was determined to have a
permanent, partial disability impairment. As a result, he received health care
treatment and benefits amounting to over $150,000. The Hartford insurance
company later discovered that Bricker knowingly failed to disclose a prior
work-related back injury, and had denied any pre-existing conditions on multiple
occasions.
“Workers’ compensation fraud drives up the cost of coverage, leaving
employers and tax payers to foot the bill,” said Laxalt. “By continuing to
pursue the prosecution of those who commit fraud against the state and its
service providers, this office is working to ensure this type of criminal
activity ceases.”
The investigation uncovered that Bricker engaged in activities outside of the
physical restrictions imposed on him by his physician, such as operating a
handyman business. This demonstrated that Bricker had grossly exaggerated his
physical limitations in order to obtain benefits.
Workers’ compensation fraud is punishable by up to four years of imprisonment
and/or a fine of up to $5,000. Bricker, who has several felony convictions on
his record, is scheduled to be sentenced in the Eighth Judicial District Court
on October 6, 2015.
This case is being prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Roger R.
Madsen.
To file a complaint with our office, click
here. To view the
criminal Information, click
here.
(Photo courtesy of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department)
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