Jail time for allegedly injured worker for filing false claim

An Orange County transit worker accused of working at a fishing supply store while receiving workers’ compensation benefits was sentenced to four days in jail and ordered to pay $6,075 in restitution after pleading guilty to two misdemeanor charges Thursday.
David J. Barker pleaded guilty to filing a false claim and making a false statement to obtain compensationThursday. In addition to jail time and restitution, he was also ordered to serve three years of informal probation and perform 30 days of community service, according to information from the Orange County Superior Court’s website.
Barker in June 2014 filed a claim against the county for a right ankle sprain he said he sustained by slipping on a curb while performing a check of his bus. The treating physician placed Barker on modified duty, saying he should not be driving Orange County Transportation Authority vehicles and should avoid prolonged walking or standing.
The transit authority could not accommodate the restrictions and placed Barker on temporary total disability until he was released to full duty in July 2014, according to information provided by Intercare Holdings Insurance Services Inc.
Barker in July 2015 returned to his doctor complaining of persistent pain in his right ankle. He had surgery in August 2015 but continued to complain about lingering pain and was kept on modified duty.
Surveillance started in March 2016 uncovered evidence that Barker was working as a salesman for Sav-On Bait and Tackle Shop, according to Intercare.