Headline
Headline
Back to Bellingham, WA News

Skagit County dairy worker pleads guilty to workers compensation fraud

Bellingham, WALocal News

Efrain Alatorre Camarena, a 58-year-old dairy worker from Skagit County, pleaded guilty to fraudulently collecting over $100,000 in workers' compensation benefits on September 17. After sustaining neck and back injuries in 2006, he received benefits intermittently for several years. An investigation by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) revealed that Camarena failed to report his employment at another dairy for at least three and a half years. The Skagit County Superior Court judge ordered him to repay L&I over $140,000, in addition to imposing a two-year probation and 160 hours of community service. L&I confirmed that Camarena has started to repay the funds he fraudulently obtained.

This case underscores the challenges of addressing workers' compensation fraud in Washington state. The ruling aims to deter similar fraudulent activities by holding offenders accountable. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of transparency and honesty in workers' compensation claims.

Related Articles

Bellingham, WALocal News

Afghan national charged in Guard ambush shooting drove across US to carry out attack, officials say

An Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who worked with the CIA, ambushed and shot two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. Lakanwal faces charges of assault with intent to kill, while both Guard members remain in critical condition.

Bellingham, WALocal News

Samish Park reopens to the public after extended closure

Samish Park in Whatcom County has reopened after more than a year of closure for bridge replacement work. The park, the only public access beach on North Lake Samish, will open reservations for day lodging on December 1, 2026. A section of the lakeside trail remains closed.

Bellingham, WALocal News

Northwest Sports Update Loaded Thanksgiving football slate, All-NWC prep football teams, state semis schedule and more

The Seattle Seahawks signed running back Cam Akers and safety Quandre Diggs to enhance their roster ahead of a match against the Minnesota Vikings. Meanwhile, former head coach Jim Mora takes the helm at Colorado State University. The article also highlights upcoming Thanksgiving football matchups and local high school football accolades.