New York Doc Allegedly Faked Reports for Prison Guard

A New York doctor who allegedly faked injury reports so a Sing Sing guard could avoid working has been charged with insurance fraud.

Officials on Thursday say 46-year-old Dr. Michael Palmieri of Yorktown heights helped the guard receive about $40,000 in worker’s compensation benefits.

From 2004 to 2006, Palmieri allegedly submitted to the state insurance fund reports that said Correction Officer Leo Coletti could not return to work at the prison.

At the time, officials said, Coletti was running a contracting business and was renovating Palmieri’s home and office.

Coletti pleaded guilty to related charges in 2006.

If convicted, Palmieri could be sentenced to seven years in prison. His lawyer, George Fufidio, said Thursday that the allegations are baseless.