Insurance Fraud Arrest

Brian Pelech, 33, of Ontario, Calif., was arrested and charged with two felony counts of insurance fraud.

In Aug. 1999, Pelech allegedly slipped between scaffolds resulting in injury to his right knee requiring surgery, while working as a bricklayer. A medical evaluation on Pelech determined his condition was permanent and stationary. In March 2001, Pelech reportedly submitted a claim for worker’s comp benefits. In April 2001, Pelech was videotaped performing masonry work that required bending, standing, cutting bricks and lifting on more than one occasion. On June 14, 2001, Pelech stated during his disposition he had not climbed a ladder since his injury, he could no longer perform bricklaying and he had not done anything for money since his injury. Witness interviews revealed Pelech was paid $700 for performing masonry work in April.

Bail is set at $25,000. If convicted, Pelech faces up to five years in prison and a $50,000 fine.