“Ohio’s workers’ compensation system exists so we can get injured workers healthy and back to work,” said BWC Administrator and CEO Steve Buehrer. “That’s why it is so frustrating to see someone take advantage of the system and diverting money that could be going towards the treatment of other injured workers.”
The bureau’s Special Investigation Department initiated an investigation after receiving a tip Jenkins had been scrapping materials at a Hamilton business while on temporary total disability. The investigation and surveillance video showed Jenkins was scrapping for a three-month period while he was prohibited to work. Records indicated he was scrapping on the same days he was examined by his physician for his work-related injury.
Jenkins entered his guilty plea March 13 and was ordered to repay $6,463.25 in addition to $536.75 for investigative costs. He was also sentenced to 180 days in prison, which was suspended and five years of community control.
If Jenkins has any other convictions while on community control, his probation will be revoked and he will serve the prison time.