A former New York State correction officer has pleaded guilty to faking a workplace injury to collect tens of thousands of dollars in workers’ compensation benefits.
Jennifer Bardin-Lapan, who worked at Great Meadow Correctional Facility, admitted in Washington County Court to felony fraud for filing a false injury claim and receiving nearly $70,000 in benefits she wasn’t entitled to.
Investigators say Bardin-Lapan claimed she hurt her back, knee, and groin during an incident with an incarcerated person in late 2022. But two videos reviewed by the Inspector General’s office showed no signs of trauma or contact matching her story.
She reportedly gave conflicting accounts of what happened to medical providers, examiners, and investigators. The Inspector General’s office determined the claims were fabricated.
“This case represented a serious breach of public trust and an intentional abuse of the workers’ compensation system,” said State Inspector General Lucy Lang.
As part of her plea deal, Bardin-Lapan agreed to pay $40,000 in restitution and permanently give up any future claims related to the incident.
The Inspector General’s office credited its workers’ compensation fraud team and the Washington County District Attorney’s Office for securing the guilty plea.
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