A former police officer from Westminster, California, and her stepfather have been charged in a significant workers’ compensation fraud case. Nicole Brown, 39, allegedly collected over $600,000 in disability payments while engaging in various physically demanding activities.
Brown faces 15 felony charges, including making false statements to secure compensation and filing fraudulent insurance claims. Prosecutors claim she reported being unable to work due to a head injury from an arrest in 2022. However, evidence shows she was seen dancing and drinking at the Stagecoach Music Festival, as well as skiing, snowboarding, and running in 5K races.
Her stepfather, Peter Gregory Schuman, 57, also faces charges for his role in the scheme. As a licensed attorney, he allegedly misrepresented Brown’s condition during a disability evaluation meeting.
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has stated that Brown claimed to suffer from debilitating symptoms like light sensitivity and dizziness. Despite these claims, she continued to participate in high-energy activities, costing the city over $600,000 in salary and medical expenses.
If found guilty, Brown could face up to 22 years in state prison and lose her pension. Schuman could face up to eight years in prison and possible disciplinary action from the State Bar of California.
The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Katie Lubinski from the D.A.’s Insurance Fraud Unit.