A former police officer from California, who allegedly collected $600,000 while on full disability leave, is facing a lawsuit from the city of Westminster due to her vacations at Disneyland and a music festival. The city claims she must repay the entire amount.
On Wednesday, Westminster announced their decision to sue Nicole Brown, stating that her actions breached the public trust and that they aim to recover all funds. The lawsuit seeks to reclaim disability payments, medical expenses, and the costs related to the investigation and prosecution of the case, according to reports.
Brown, who had served with the Westminster police since 2019, reportedly sustained minor head injuries during her arrest in 2022, which she claimed prevented her from working. However, evidence surfaced showing her enjoying the Stagecoach music festival a few days later. Just three days post-festival, she attended a Zoom meeting where she told fellow officers that looking at the screen caused her discomfort.
The city alleged that Brown was dealing with “post-concussion syndrome,” which purportedly caused various symptoms like headaches and light sensitivity. Westminster Mayor Cheeley Nguyen expressed disappointment, stating that Brown’s betrayal undermines trust in public service. The mayor reinforced the commitment to protect taxpayer money and ensure injured employees genuinely receive support.
In May, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office pointed out that Brown managed to maintain an active lifestyle while on disability. She completed an online master’s program, participated in multiple 5K races, went skiing, and attended various sporting events—all while drawing a tax-free salary alongside her medical costs.
Brown has been charged with multiple counts of submitting false information for compensation and fraudulent insurance claims, along with a serious charge for committing an aggravated white-collar crime exceeding $100,000. If found guilty, she could face a prison sentence of up to 22 years.
Interestingly, her stepfather, Peter Gregory Schuman—a workers’ compensation attorney—is implicated as well, accused of helping her hatch this questionable plan. He allegedly facilitated discussions with Westminster PD and managed Brown’s entry into a hospital for traumatic brain injuries. Schuman could face significant consequences too, including potential loss of his law license if convicted.
