The Case
John C.* claimed that as a result of multiple surgeries to fix his diverticulitis he was unable to engage in the activities he was once able to do; activities such as boating, fishing, lifting, bending, etc. While the difficulties he claimed were known complications, he blamed the surgeon for failing to operate early enough.
The attorneys representing the defendant, Dr. K., retained B. Lauren Investigations and requested surveillance as part of their discovery. They hoped to capture indisputable proof that John was not physically limited as claimed.
The Surveillance
Two investigators from our team, Judy and Mary, surveilled John and found him out on his boat. Unfortunately, it was difficult to watch him closely while he was out on the water. So, what did they do? They got creative. They devised a plan where John would actually invite them aboard…
Donning hats, Judy carrying a microphone, and Mary shouldering a video camera, the investigators posed as reporters gathering information for a story about local boating. Without hesitation John invited them aboard, and as Judy began talking about details for their story, Mary videotaped her.
Success!! Mary was able to capture John actively engaging in a multitude of activities….including bending to clean up, helping Judy onto the boat, and lifting supplies from the ground to well above his head. His movements were fluid, seemingly pain free, and he moved from one to the other with little hesitation.
The Outcome
Once the surveillance video and report were shown to John C. and his attorney the case was quickly dropped; with one additional, and somewhat surprising request. John C. requested the video be destroyed due to the risk the video would pose if the Social Security Administration got a hold of it. Why? Apparently Mr. C was collecting Social Security Disability and the video would clearly raise questions. Quite the shifty sailor!
*All names used are fictional to protect client privacy
