LA Cop Arrested for Insurance Fraud After Skydiving While on Disability

Christopher Carnahan, an 18-year LAPD veteran, allegedly exaggerated injury claims to collect benefits while engaging in physical activities.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A Los Angeles police officer named Christopher Carnahan has been arrested on two felony counts of insurance fraud after he was spotted skydiving and working out at a gym while on full disability leave. Investigators say Carnahan, a 43-year-old 18-year LAPD veteran, exaggerated the extent of an on-duty injury in 2023 and 2025 in order to collect disability benefits, all while engaging in physically demanding activities like skydiving and weightlifting.

Why it matters

This case highlights issues of integrity and accountability within law enforcement, as an officer sworn to uphold the law is accused of fraudulently collecting disability payments intended for injured workers. It also raises questions about oversight and verification procedures for disability claims, especially for public sector employees.

The details

According to prosecutors, Carnahan submitted injury claims in 2023 and 2025, claiming he had temporarily suffered a totally disabling left elbow injury while on duty. This allowed him to collect a paycheck without clocking in. However, investigators say they have evidence of Carnahan skydiving and working out at a gym during this time period, contradicting his disability claims. Photos show Carnahan leaping from a plane and lifting weights with his muscles visible.

  • Carnahan submitted injury claims in 2023 and 2025.
  • Carnahan was arrested on February 26, 2026.

The players

Christopher Carnahan

A 43-year-old 18-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department who has been arrested on two felony counts of insurance fraud.

Nathan J. Hochman

The Los Angeles County District Attorney who announced the charges against Carnahan, stating "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."

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What they’re saying

“This case is about honesty and accountability. 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.”

— Nathan J. Hochman, Los Angeles County District Attorney

What’s next

Carnahan was held on $100,000 bail and faces up to five years in prison if convicted. The judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of integrity and accountability within law enforcement, as well as the need for rigorous verification procedures for disability claims, especially for public sector employees who are entrusted to uphold the law.