New Lexington man pleads guilty to workers’ comp fraud

Anonymous tip leads to felony conviction and order to repay more than $9,534.51

Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007

A New Lexington man pleaded guilty to defrauding the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).

The Franklin County Common Pleas Court convicted Allen Beougher of a fifth-degree felony and sentenced him to five years community control and ordered him to pay $9,534.51 in restitution to BWC.

“Workers’ compensation is intended to help men and women who have been injured at work,” said acting Administrator/CEO Tina Kielmeyer. “BWC is committed to providing good service to injured workers and employers and protecting the fund for those who need help.”

Beougher injured himself in 1987 while working for Kessler Brothers Lumber. He hurt his back while lifting lumber at the sawmill. As a result of the accident, he received temporary total disability.

BWC received an anonymous tip in 2005 that Beougher was working. The investigation revealed that Beougher was working as an independent laborer for Tri County Termite & Pest Control. BWC closed the case in 2006.

BWC’s special investigations department researches every fraud allegation. So far in the 2007 fiscal year, the department has processed 2,452 new fraud allegations and identified more than $40 million in savings.

To report workers’ compensation fraud, call 1-800-OHIOBWC, or call your local BWC customer service office and ask for the fraud unit. You can also submit an allegation on BWC’s Web site at ohiobwc.com.

# # #

Media Contact: Nancy Smeltzer, (614) 752-7558