A veteran Los Angeles police officer was arrested on Tuesday after being caught skydiving while supposedly on full disability. Christopher Carnahan, an 18-year LAPD cop living in Norwalk, was charged with two felony counts of insurance fraud by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Special Operations Division.
Investigators discovered that Carnahan, 43, had exaggerated his on-duty injury claims to receive disability benefits while engaging in activities like skydiving and other sports. District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman emphasized the importance of honesty and accountability in this case, stating that claiming disability benefits while participating in physically demanding activities is a crime.
The fraudulent claims were made in 2023 and 2025, alleging that Carnahan had injured his left elbow while on duty in May 2023 and was placed on total disability status. Despite this, he was seen skydiving at Skydive Elsinore in Lake Elsinore, California, and working out at a fitness center, contradicting his supposed disability.
Photos circulated by the DA’s office showed Carnahan skydiving and pumping iron in a gym while collecting disability benefits. He was taken into custody and faces up to five years in prison if found guilty. Carnahan’s attorney was not immediately available for comment.
The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of insurance fraud and the importance of upholding the law, especially for someone in a position of authority like a police officer. The LAPD is committed to holding its officers accountable for their actions and ensuring that justice is served.
