Former Tustin Police Officers Face Charges for Alleged Workers’ Compensation Fraud
In a shocking case of alleged workers’ compensation fraud, two former Tustin Police Department officers, Kyle and Kendal Hurd, are facing multiple felony counts related to insurance fraud, perjury, and attempted perjury. According to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, the married couple faked their injuries and bilked the workers’ compensation system for over $188,000. The deception was reportedly captured on video surveillance by the city, which began monitoring the couple after they failed to show improvement despite receiving extensive medical care for months.
Kyle and Kendal claimed that their chronic back pain, which they attributed to wearing police gear and duty belts and getting in and out of patrol vehicles, rendered them unable to perform basic tasks. Kendal, 40, stated that she could not lift anything heavier than 3 pounds unless supervised at physical therapy, and standing for more than five minutes was excruciatingly painful. However, it is alleged that they concealed the fact that they were capable of engaging in activities such as mountain biking, scuba diving, and home improvement projects from their doctors.
The former police officers were terminated by the Tustin Police Department in 2021, and now face serious consequences if convicted. Kendal could be sentenced to 11 years in state prison, while Kyle faces a maximum of nine years and six months behind bars. Furthermore, if found guilty, they will lose any pension benefits accrued from the date of the alleged crime and will be prohibited from working as peace officers in the future.
District Attorney Todd Spitzer expressed his dismay at the breach of public trust committed by individuals sworn to uphold the law. He emphasized the commitment to hold those who commit workers’ compensation fraud accountable and to return fraudulently obtained funds to the taxpayers of Tustin.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and honesty, especially among those entrusted with maintaining public safety. Workers’ compensation fraud not only undermines the trust placed in law enforcement officers but also diverts resources that could be utilized to aid legitimate claimants. The justice system aims to ensure that those who abuse the system are held responsible for their actions and face the appropriate consequences.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a workers’ compensation dispute or believes they have been a victim of fraud, it is essential to consult with experienced legal professionals who can provide guidance and support throughout the process.