LAPD officer charged with insurance fraud for allegedly skydiving while on disability leave

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A Los Angeles police officer has been charged with felony insurance fraud after he was spotted skydiving while on disability leave.

Christopher Carnahan, of Norwalk, hurt his elbow while on duty in 2023, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Prosecutors allege that he completed many skydives in Lake Elsinore and worked out at a fitness center while collecting disability benefits.

The 18-year veteran of the LAPD was arrested this week and charged with two counts of felony insurance fraud. He is being held on $100,000 bail.

If convicted as charged, he faces up to six years behind bars.

“This case is about honesty and accountability,” L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said in a press release. “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.”