Beauty Contestant Busted Through Social Media For Workers’ Comp Fraud

Shawna Lynn Palmer, 22, of Riverside has been arrested for workers’ compensation fraud after video evidence showed her participating in the 2014 Miss Toyota Long Beach Grand Prix beauty contest.

Palmer, a clerk at Stater Brothers, on March 10 reported to her employer that she fractured a toe on her left foot at work.

During multiple doctor visits Palmer claimed she could not place any weight on her foot, nor could she move it in any direction, or wear a shoe for any length of time, an investigation showed.

Palmers’ doctor provided an ortho shoe, crutches, and gave her orders to refrain from working and to elevate her foot whenever possible. Palmer stated that she was not able to work due to her foot injury and continued to collect workers’ comp benefits, according to the investigation.

While collecting the benefits, Palmer participated in at least two beauty contests wearing high heels and walking without any signs of discomfort. Video was posted on YouTube of Palmer and as a contestant in the 2014 Miss Toyota Long Beach Grand Prix beauty contest, as well as on her Facebook page.

“This suspect made the job of our departments’ detectives easier by openly participating in high profile events,” Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones said in a statement.

If convicted, Palmer faces up to one year in county jail, three years of probation, and restitution of $24,000.

Topics Fraud Workers' Compensation