February 25, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Workers’ Compensation Fraud: A Florida framing contractor will serve 48 months in prison and pay millions in fines and restitution after failing to provide workers’ compensation insurance and neglecting workplace safety—resulting in a worker’s death.
A Pattern of Negligence
Workers’ Compensation Fraud: For years, Manuel Domingos Pita, owner of Domingos 54 Construction, ignored Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. Despite receiving six previous citations, he still refused to provide fall protection gear for employees working on roofs.
In 2020, a worker installing roof decking on a windy day fell after a gust of wind blew him off the roof. The worker did not survive.
Workers’ Comp Fraud & Tax Evasion
In addition to neglecting safety, Pita also engaged in a massive fraud scheme. Prosecutors revealed that he:
- Defrauded insurance carriers of $22 million by underreporting payroll
- Avoided paying $33 million in federal taxes on wages
- Lied about payroll numbers when purchasing workers’ compensation coverage
As a result, authorities charged him with fraud and willful workplace violations. Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Sweeney emphasized that his deliberate deception harmed workers while enriching himself.
OSHA Violations & Legal Consequences
Although OSHA cited Pita’s company multiple times in 2019 for failing to provide fall protection, he ignored the safety mandates and never paid the fines. Consequently, the violations continued until a worker tragically lost his life.
His legal troubles escalated as follows:
- 2022: Authorities indicted him for fraud.
- 2024: He agreed to a settlement with OSHA, promising to pay penalties plus interest.
- Sentencing: The court ordered him to forfeit $5 million and pay $55 million in restitution.
For more information on workplace safety standards and enforcement, visit the U.S. Department of Labor OSHA News page to stay informed and learn how to protect your employees.
FAQs: About the Florida Workers’ Compensation Fraud Case
What happened in the Florida workers’ compensation fraud case?
Manuel Domingos Pita, owner of Domingos 54 Construction, failed to provide workers’ compensation coverage and neglected workplace safety, resulting in a fatal fall and massive fraud.
How did authorities uncover the workers’ compensation fraud?
Investigators found that Pita underreported payroll to defraud insurance carriers of $22 million, evaded $33 million in federal taxes, and ignored repeated OSHA safety citations.
What penalties did the Florida contractor face for workers’ compensation fraud?
Pita was sentenced to 48 months in prison, ordered to forfeit $5 million, and pay $55 million in restitution for fraud and workplace safety violations.
Why is this workers’ compensation fraud case significant?
The case demonstrates the severe consequences of combining insurance fraud with unsafe working conditions, emphasizing that legal and financial accountability extends beyond mere citations.
How can employers prevent workers’ compensation fraud?
Employers should maintain accurate payroll records, provide legally required insurance, follow OSHA safety mandates, and educate staff to ensure compliance and reduce liability.
For expert insights on workers’ comp fraud, OSHA violations, and legal trends, visit JacobiJournal.com. Our in-depth industry coverage keeps you informed on critical developments.
🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
- NY Doctor Convicted in $24M Medicare Fraud Scheme
- Texas Man Sentenced to 13 Years for $5M Insurance Fraud
- Former Ohio Insurance Agent Sentenced for $1.4M Fraud Scheme
- Former Florida Broker and Others Indicted in Major Insurance Fraud Schemes
- Farmers Projects $600M in Losses from Los Angeles Wildfires