Pickleball Play Exposes Alleged Fraud: Nicholas T. Sanchez, a former Gary police officer, may evade a criminal record after allegedly lying about his injuries while collecting $17,000 in workers’ compensation. He signed a pre-trial diversion agreement on Friday, which could lead to the dismissal of charges if he maintains good behavior for a year.
Fraudulent Claims Amid Pickleball Play
Sanchez, 47, faces serious allegations after being recorded on video playing pickleball just a month after claiming he was injured. He stated that he slipped on snow-covered stairs while on duty in December 2022. According to court records, he went on workers’ compensation from December 16 to February 16, 2023.
Sanchez reported that he fell on icy stairs on December 16 at the 5900 block of W. 36th Avenue. An initial medical evaluation suggested he could return to desk duty, but he was later placed completely off work. However, his claims were brought into question when he was spotted participating in a pickleball tournament shortly after his injury.
Evidence of Deception at Pickleball Tournament
The investigation intensified when authorities learned that Sanchez was scheduled to compete in a pickleball tournament in Griffith in January 2023.
On January 20, video footage from Match Point Sports and Fitness captured Sanchez actively playing in the tournament. He showed no signs of pain or discomfort during the match, directly contradicting his claims of injury.
Additionally, the footage revealed Sanchez lifting heavy gym bags, raising further doubts about the legitimacy of his reported injuries. This evidence has played a crucial role in the ongoing investigation into his actions.
Terms of the Diversion Agreement
As part of the pre-trial diversion agreement, Sanchez must pay $479 in court fees and $2,500 in restitution. If he follows these conditions and stays out of trouble for a year, prosecutors will agree to drop the charges against him.
Sanchez, who served nearly ten years on the Gary Police Department, resigned on April 22, 2023. He was charged on May 11, 2023, with two counts of Level 6 felony fraud and two misdemeanor counts of fraud.
Impact on Community Trust and Law Enforcement
The allegations against Sanchez underscore the importance of integrity in public service. This case not only highlights the potential for fraud in workers’ compensation claims but also raises concerns about trust within the community.
As investigations continue, the outcome of this case may significantly impact Sanchez’s future and the reputation of the Gary Police Department, especially as the sport of pickleball grows in popularity and community engagement.
News in Brief: Pickleball Play Exposes Alleged Fraud
Nicholas T. Sanchez, a former Gary police officer, may avoid a criminal record after allegedly lying about injuries to collect $17,000 in workers’ compensation.
Recorded playing pickleball a month after his claim, he signed a pre-trial diversion agreement, requiring good behavior for a year. The case raises concerns about integrity in public service and community trust, particularly as pickleball’s popularity grows.
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