Authorities have leveled accusations of insurance fraud against a Los Angeles police officer, claiming he engaged in multiple skydiving activities while receiving full disability benefits. The officer in question, Christopher Brandon Carnahan, 43, hails from Norwalk and faces charges following allegations that he exaggerated an injury sustained on duty in 2023, as reported by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

Carnahan, a seasoned officer with an 18-year tenure at the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), has been identified through California public records, as noted by WatchTheWatchers.net.

“This case underscores the importance of honesty and accountability,” stated Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman in an official release.

Images show Christopher Brandon Carnahan participating in skydiving at Skydive Elsinore located in Lake Elsinore, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

“It is unlawful to claim full disability benefits meant for injured workers while partaking in strenuous activities like skydiving. As an officer, Carnahan is well aware of the laws and ethical standards he is expected to uphold,” Hochman emphasized.

“Claiming to be temporarily totally disabled and collecting disability benefits intended for injured workers while engaging in physically demanding activities like skydiving is a crime. This is an officer who knows the law and understands the standards he is sworn to uphold.”

On May 22, 2023, Carnahan claimed he injured his left elbow while on duty and was subsequently placed on temporary totally disabled (TTD) status, officials said.

Police under TTD are entitled to receive 100% of their base salary tax-free for up to a year and then two-thirds afterward if the injury persists.

Surveillance footage captures Carnahan working out at a fitness center with dumbbells. (District Attorney’s Office for the Los Angeles County District)

Contrary to claims of being completely disabled, Carnahan allegedly engaged in strenuous physical activity, including working out and completing “many skydives” at Skydive Elsinore in Lake Elsinore, south of Los Angeles.

The District Attorney’s Office also released photos showing what appears to be Carnahan skydiving and exercising at a fitness center. In one image, dated May 23, 2024, the LAPD officer is seen holding dumbbells in a motion that involves his elbows.

A Los Angeles Police Department vehicle is parked in the city.  (Los Angeles Police Department)

He faces two counts of felony insurance fraud and is being held on $100,000 bail. If convicted, Carnahan could be sentenced to six years in jail.

The LAPD, which is investigating the case, is expected to review Carnahan’s employment status pending the outcome of his criminal trial.

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