CHEYENNE – The Department of Workforce Services (DWS) is committed to upholding the integrity of the Wyoming Workers’ Compensation system, which is intended to provide financial support to individuals injured on the job and to assist in their recovery and return to employment. In light of Kaylinna Marie Young’s criminal sentence for fraudulently obtaining Workers’ Compensation benefits, DWS reaffirms its dedication to combating fraudulent activities that undermine the long-term viability of the Workers’ Compensation Trust Fund.
Ms. Young was sentenced on Feb. 13 to three years of probation for forgery. In January 2011, Ms. Young sustained a work-related injury and filed a workers’ compensation claim. In July 2018, Ms. Young filed for Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits, which were approved beginning July 24, 2018, and continued through August 2020.
Between September 2020 and Oct. 5, 2022, Ms. Young produced 14 TTD certifications to extend benefits, forging three separate doctors’ signatures and thereby deliberately misrepresenting her claim. Ms. Young fraudulently received $39,924.09 in TTD benefits, which is a felony under Wyoming Statute § 27-14-510(a)(ii) Misrepresentations or false statements.
In addition to three years of probation, Ms. Young was ordered to repay DWS the entire amount.
“The impact of Ms. Young’s actions extends beyond the financial losses suffered by the Workers’ Compensation program. This fraudulent behavior undermines the foundation of trust that underpins our operations. It creates a ripple effect throughout the program, casting doubt on the legitimacy of other claims and increasing scrutiny and administrative burdens on honest applicants,” said Chad Seidel, Quality Assurance Manager for DWS.
Workers’ Compensation fraud impacts all stakeholders involved – employers, employees, and the state. “Fraudulent claims threaten the sustainability of the Workers’ Compensation program and cause an undue burden through increased premiums on the businesses responsible for providing coverage to their employees,” said DWS Workforce Standards Administrator Jason Wolfe. “We will continue to do everything we can to expose and deter fraud, ensuring a fair and efficient compensation process for all hardworking individuals and businesses in Wyoming.”
The Department will vigorously pursue those engaging in deceptive practices, ensuring accountability and promoting a level playing field for all. DWS encourages the public, employers, and employees to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to Workers’ Compensation or Unemployment Insurance claims. Those who are aware of potential fraudulent activity are urged to visit the DWS website at dws.wyo.gov/fraud for more information on how this can be reported.