OGDEN, Utah — A federal agent based in Ogden has been charged with allegedly claiming total disability after suffering a concussion, while simultaneously undertaking numerous strenuous hiking expeditions, including a two-week trip to Italy. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced an indictment against Michelle Bouziden, 44, who serves as an Assistant Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General in Ogden.
According to the DOJ, Bouziden sustained a concussion while on the job in March. Following this injury, she reportedly "falsely reported that ongoing symptoms left her totally disabled and unable to work." The circumstances of how Bouziden was injured during work hours have not been publicly detailed.
Beginning in May, Bouziden submitted filings asserting her inability to engage in what she described as "arduous physical activity." These documents claimed she could not perform required work tasks that involved actions such as "sitting, walking, standing, twisting, bending, squatting, kneeling, climbing, and operating a motor vehicle."
However, the Department of Justice alleges that on the very day Bouziden filed documents stating her disability, she boarded a flight to Italy. She is accused of remaining in Italy for two weeks, during which time she reportedly hiked over 50 miles in the Dolomites. Throughout this trip, Bouziden is said to have shared details of her adventures in Italy on social media.
The indictment further claims that prior to her trip to Europe, Bouziden canceled a scheduled mandatory, independent medical evaluation. She allegedly stated the evaluation conflicted with a "wellness retreat." The DOJ asserts that instead of attending the medical evaluation, Bouziden traveled to Breckenridge, Colorado, to hike the Quandary Peak Trail.
Between May 17 and August 31, the indictment against Bouziden claims she participated in approximately 17 "mountain climbing expeditions." These alleged activities spanned over 140 miles in total, during the period she was claiming total disability. In all, Bouziden is alleged to have received more than $51,500 in disability compensation.
U.S. Attorney Melissa Holyoak of the District of Utah commented on the allegations, stating that the alleged fraud not only financially disadvantages taxpayers but also disrespects dedicated federal employees who are committed to combating fraud.
