Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to WC Fraud

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) announced a Wyandot County man has pled guilty to workers’ compensation fraud. Robert Keaton is scheduled to be sentenced at 9 a.m. June 28 in the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas.

The BWC’s special investigation unit (SIU) was alerted of possible fraud by Keaton when they reportedly received an anonymous tip that he purchased work equipment. The SIU confirmed that he was self-employed while receiving workers’ comp benefits. Through his business, Keaton Welding & Fabricating, he provided welding, repair and fabrication services.

Keaton was injured on the job in September 2001. When he fell down a flight of stairs he suffered injuries to his left leg and arm. At the time of his injury, he was employed by Windmoeller & Hoelscher Corp.

In fiscal year 2003, BWC uncovered $102 million in savings from fraudulent activity. There were 130 convictions. The average take in a fraudulent workers’ comp case is $35,000.