Things haven't gone quite as planned for two Yucaipa Calif. lovebirds who could end up caged for workers' compensation fraud.
According to investigators from the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office, Workers' Compensation Fraud Prosecution Unit, Lois Ventura and Keith MacBride owned a business together.
The problem, however, is that Ventura, 51, was collecting workers' compensation benefits for an industrial injury suffered at a local company where she was employed. The injury occurred in August 2010.
After receiving a “We Tip” report of possible fraud, officials started an investigation in July 2011 discovering her co-ownership with MacBride, 44. Ventura was working at the couple's business while continuing to receive cash benefits as well as medical benefits through the workers' compensation program.
During an interview with MacBride, investigators determined that he knew Ventura was receiving benefits. Although this was uncovered, MacBride misrepresented the facts during the criminal investigation, claiming that Ventura was not part owner of the business.
Charges were sought against both Ventura and MacBride for violation of workers' compensation insurance fraud and conspiracy to commit a crime, as well as failing to obtain workers' compensation insurance for the new business.
On Nov. 3, Ventura and MacBride were arraigned at the San Bernardino Superior Court. They were reportedly released “on their own recognizance” and ordered to appear back in court at a later date. The case will be prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney David Simon.
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