LAPD Officer Charged With Insurance Fraud After Allegedly Skydiving While on Disability Leave

A veteran officer with the Los Angeles Police Department is facing felony insurance fraud charges after prosecutors say he engaged in physically demanding activities while on disability leave.

Christopher Carnahan, an 18-year LAPD officer from Norwalk, was arrested this week and charged with two counts of felony insurance fraud. He is being held on $100,000 bail and could face up to six years in prison if convicted.

According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Carnahan injured his elbow while on duty in 2023 and later collected disability benefits intended for injured workers. Prosecutors allege that during that time, he completed multiple skydives in Lake Elsinore and regularly worked out at a fitness center.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the case centers on accountability, noting that collecting disability benefits while participating in physically demanding activities violates the law — particularly for someone sworn to uphold it.

Authorities say the investigation focused on whether Carnahan misrepresented his physical condition while receiving benefits.

The case remains ongoing as Carnahan faces the charges in court.

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