LAPD Officer Charged With Fraud After Skydiving Incident

Prosecutors say the 18-year veteran collected disability pay while working out and skydiving.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 43-year-old Los Angeles police officer named Christopher Brandon Carnahan has been charged with fraud after allegedly collecting full disability pay following an on-duty elbow injury in May 2023, while also being seen working out at a gym and going skydiving.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about potential abuse of disability benefits and raises questions about oversight and accountability for public sector workers receiving such payments, especially in physically demanding roles like law enforcement.

The details

Prosecutors say Carnahan, an 18-year LAPD veteran, reported an on-duty elbow injury in May 2023 and began collecting full disability pay, but was also seen working out at a gym and going skydiving during this time period.

  • Carnahan reported an on-duty elbow injury in May 2023.
  • Carnahan began collecting full disability pay after the reported injury.

The players

Christopher Brandon Carnahan

A 43-year-old 18-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department who is accused of collecting disability pay while working out and skydiving.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)

The law enforcement agency that employed Carnahan for 18 years prior to the alleged fraud.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must hold public servants accountable when they abuse the system for personal gain.”

— Unspecified, Prosecutor

What’s next

Prosecutors will continue to investigate the case and determine if Carnahan should face additional charges or penalties.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for robust oversight and verification processes to ensure the integrity of disability benefit programs, especially for public sector employees in physically demanding roles.