Husband and Wife Hucksters Busted for $38 million Workers Comp Scam
Per a report from TV station KTLA, two OC citizens have been arrested and charged with 106 felony counts for a massive workers compensation scam valued at $38 million--a California state record.
The husband and wife defendants--Devon Kile and Michael Petronella--own and operate two large area roofing companies. According to allegations, the couple underreported how many people worked for them and actively discouraged injured employees from filing for workers comp. Additional counts against the couple include "filing false tax returns" and "grand theft."
An investigation of the couple's home and assets revealed a luxurious lifestyle. Officers found ½ million dollars worth of jewelry; luxury name-brand shoes, bags, and other artifacts; and a veritable convoy of top-end cars, including a Range Rover, a Bentley, and two Ferraris. Investigators also found Kile's application to be featured on the next season of "The Real Housewives of Orange County."
Petronella's attorney, Joe Angelo, stated that the couple will likely plead "not guilty" to the charges pending. The state has seized the couple's personal and business assets, so "Real Housewives" wannabe Kile will rely on a public defender provided by the state.
Meanwhile, business interests throughout the state reacted with predictable outrage to the charges. California's State Insurance Commissioner, Steve Poizner, lambasted the alleged scheme, citing the fact that insurance premiums for workers comp are already sky-high and that the couple's actions likely constituted "unfair practices" because legitimate competitors have had to pay full price for their insurance.
If you or a family member has been accused of a crime in Orange County, you may feel like the entire world--particularly the press--has turned against you. Instead of making rash and impetuous decisions which could affect your future, get council from the Law Offices of Stephen Brodsky. Peruse www.CriminalAttorneySanDiego.com today for help, or call or e-mail us for information about how to handle your criminal charges.
