Louisiana Corrections Officer Accused of Workers’ Comp Fraud

July 10, 2009

Louisiana State Police have arrested a Lafourche Parish correctional officer on allegations that she participated in a bowling league after going on workers’ compensation.

Authorities booked Heather Erwin with theft, malfeasance and insurance fraud following a six-month investigation. State police say she received benefits totaling more than $20,000.

Investigators say Erwin was involved in a crash in a sheriff’s office vehicle last November – and reported she was not able to work because of pain. But state police say they learned that she was bowling in a league twice weekly.

State police say Erwin knowingly provided false statements during medical evaluations in support of her claim. Also, Erwin filed multiple claims – with Progressive and Farm Bureau – although she was pursuing a workers’ compensation claim, the LSP said.