LAPD Officer Charged with Felony Insurance Fraud After Alleged Skydiving While on Disability

Authorities say the 18-year veteran officer exaggerated an on-duty injury to collect full disability benefits while engaging in physically demanding activities.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A 43-year-old Los Angeles police officer named Christopher Brandon Carnahan has been charged with two counts of felony insurance fraud after authorities say he collected full disability benefits while allegedly going skydiving and working out at a fitness center, contradicting his claims of being "temporarily totally disabled" from an on-duty injury in 2023.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about fraud and abuse within disability benefits programs, especially when involving public employees who are expected to uphold the law. It raises questions about oversight and accountability measures to ensure injured workers are truly unable to perform their duties before receiving taxpayer-funded disability payments.

The details

Carnahan, a veteran LAPD officer of 18 years, claimed he injured his left elbow while on duty in May 2023 and was placed on temporary total disability (TTD) status, entitling him to 100% of his base salary tax-free for up to a year. However, authorities say Carnahan engaged in strenuous physical activities like skydiving and weightlifting that contradicted his disability claims.

  • On May 22, 2023, Carnahan claimed he injured his left elbow while on duty.
  • On May 23, 2024, Carnahan was photographed holding dumbbells in a motion involving his elbows at a fitness center.

The players

Christopher Brandon Carnahan

A 43-year-old Los Angeles police officer with 18 years of service who has been charged with two counts of felony insurance fraud.

Nathan J. Hochman

The Los Angeles County District Attorney who stated "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."

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)

The law enforcement agency that Carnahan has worked for and is now investigating his employment status pending the outcome of his criminal trial.

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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 (newspub.live)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Carnahan to be released on bail pending the outcome of his criminal trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for robust oversight and verification measures within disability benefits programs, especially for public employees who are entrusted to uphold the law. It raises concerns about potential fraud and abuse that undermine the integrity of these important safety net programs.