March 22, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com – Washington Dairy Worker Workers’ Comp Scam: A Washington farmhand faces felony theft charges for allegedly stealing over $122,000 in workers’ compensation benefits. Authorities claim that Efrain Alatorre Camarena secretly worked at another dairy farm while continuing to collect payments.
Fraud Uncovered by L&I Investigation
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) launched an investigation that uncovered the alleged fraud. Investigators found that Camarena, 58, had worked on another dairy farm while earning more than $172,000 in income. Despite working, Camarena reportedly collected over $122,000 in L&I payments for more than three years. Washington Dairy Worker Workers’ Comp Scam
Background: Original Injury and Return to Work
Camarena initially reported that he suffered neck and back pain after an accident involving a runaway cow at a Skagit County dairy in 2006. A doctor determined he was unable to work, leading him to receive L&I payments for over five years. After undergoing surgery in early 2020 related to his original injury, he resumed receiving benefits.
Fraudulent Work While Collecting Benefits
In 2023, L&I investigators discovered that Camarena was actively working despite claiming to be unable to work. This discrepancy led to felony theft charges.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Camarena is now facing felony charges for theft and fraud. A conviction could result in significant fines and possible imprisonment.
For further authoritative information on workers’ compensation fraud: Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
FAQs: Washington Workers’ Comp Scam Case
How much money was involved in the Washington workers’ comp scam?
Authorities allege the dairy worker fraudulently collected over $122,000 in benefits.
How was the Washington workers’ comp scam discovered?
An investigation by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries revealed the worker was secretly employed while receiving benefits.
What charges can result from a workers’ comp scam?
In this case, felony theft and fraud charges were filed, which could lead to fines and imprisonment.
What role did the worker’s original injury play in the workers’ comp scam?
The worker initially qualified for benefits due to a 2006 injury but later worked secretly while still collecting payments.
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