(Office of the Attorney General) – Nevada Attorney General Adam Paul Laxalt announced that Michael Joseph Bricker, 49, of Las Vegas, was sentenced for workers’ compensation fraud, a category “D” felony. The fraud was committed between March 2013 and May 2014.
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 disability. As a result, he received tens of thousands of dollars in health care treatment and benefits. 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. The investigation also uncovered that Bricker engaged in activities outside of the physical restrictions imposed on him by his physician, such as operating a handyman business, among other things.
“Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to provide wage replacement and medical benefits to employees suffering legitimate job-related injuries,” said Laxalt. “This type of fraud will not be taken lightly by this office, as it victimizes taxpayers and businesses who are forced to pay higher premiums as a result.”
Eighth Judicial District Court Judge Michelle Leavitt sentenced Bricker to probation, not to exceed five years, with intensive supervision and house arrest. He was also ordered to repay $75,000 in benefits to his employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier, The Hartford.
This case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Roger R. Madsen.
To file a complaint with our office, click here. To view the criminal Information for Michael Joseph Bricker, click here.