Aida Perez, Filing False Workers Compensation Claim, New Jersey 2020

A Union County, New Jersey, U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier has been charged with making false statements to obtain federal workers' compensation benefits. Aida Perez, 42, of Roselle Park, New Jersey, is accused of lying about a work-related ankle sprain in 2020 to receive benefits. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

According to documents filed in the case, Perez, who worked as a mail carrier in Westfield, New Jersey, certified on November 18, 2020, that she sustained an ankle sprain on November 9, 2020, while performing her duties. However, an investigation revealed that Perez operated a business from which she received substantial income. An undercover law enforcement officer purchased $245 in goods from Perez’s business during the investigation.

Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced the charge and credited members of the USPS – Office of Inspector General, Northeast Area Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi, with the investigation leading to the charges. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Pesce of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s OCDETF/Narcotics Unit in Newark.

Perez made her initial appearance today by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark Falk and was released on bail. The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The case is being investigated by the USPS – Office of Inspector General, Northeast Area Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Pesce of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s OCDETF/Narcotics Unit in Newark is prosecuting the case.

Perez, who is accused of making false statements to obtain federal workers’ compensation benefits, is scheduled to appear in court for further proceedings. The case highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in the workplace, particularly when it comes to reporting injuries and receiving benefits.

As this case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen what other evidence will be presented and what the outcome will be. One thing is certain, however: the pursuit of truth and justice will continue to guide the investigation and prosecution of this case.

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