Postal Worker Jailed for Workers’ Comp Scam

NORFOLK, Va. – Former postal worker Ronald Henderson, 58, of Lewiston, North Carolina, has been sentenced to 13 months in prison for Federal Employees’ Compensation Fraud. He must also pay $163,956.23 in restitution to the Department of Labor.

Henderson’s scheme involved falsely claiming to have injured his shoulder while performing his duties as a mail carrier in Suffolk on June 11, 2011. However, court documents reveal that the injury actually occurred while he was off-duty. In addition to receiving workers’ compensation payments, Henderson filed hundreds of false travel claims seeking reimbursement for expenses related to medical treatment.

According to prosecutors, Henderson was able to ‘double-dip’ by receiving workers’ compensation payments and his normal paycheck at the same time, all while failing to notify the authorities of his return to work.

Henderson pleaded guilty to the charges on Dec. 2, 2015. U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Dana J. Boente, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Rebecca Beach Smith. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Stoker prosecuted the case.

The case against Henderson highlights the importance of accountability in workers’ compensation cases. ‘Double-dipping’ and falsifying claims can have serious consequences for individuals and the system as a whole.

Henderson’s sentence serves as a warning to those who would attempt to defraud the system. His case will be remembered as a prime example of the consequences of committing workers’ compensation fraud.

A copy of the press release can be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:15-cr-120.