Staff
October 30, 2025
Five current and former New York State correction officers have been arrested following an 18-month investigation into fraudulent sick leave and workers’ compensation claims at two Ulster County prisons.
The charges, announced Wednesday by state and local officials, stem from schemes that cost taxpayers more than $15,000 and involved fake medical documentation, false injury claims, and unauthorized outside employment.
According to the New York State Inspector General, three officers allegedly forged documents to claim injuries or illnesses that were never diagnosed. One officer reportedly collected thousands in workers’ comp while secretly working as a home health aide. Another allegedly submitted over 20 fake sick notes over two years to collect wages while skipping work.
“These crimes both erode trust in government and drain resources that should be dedicated to workers’ rights, public safety, and rehabilitation,” said Inspector General Lucy Lang.
Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel Nneji called the cases especially troubling, pointing out that the accused were sworn public officers entrusted with maintaining prison safety.
The five defendants — Christine Donovan, Jeremy LaChance, Ashli Paulino, Brian Porter, and Anthony Tacti — face a range of felony charges, including grand larceny, insurance fraud, and offering a false instrument for filing.
Some were arraigned and released on their own recognizance, while others were issued desk appearance tickets. All are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
