BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) - A Buffalo police officer is facing federal fraud charges after authorities say he was seen working at a restaurant while claiming to be too injured to work.
U.S. Attorney William Hochul says Wednesday that Robert Quintana faces up to 20 years in prison if he's convicted of mail fraud and health care fraud.
Quintana has been on "Injured-on-Duty" status, collecting his $60,000-salary and benefits, since 2005 after saying he hurt his back falling on icy steps. But prosecutors say he's been lifting supplies and cleaning tables at a restaurant.
Quintana, who's been a police officer since 1988, served on Buffalo's Common Council in the mid-1990s.
He pleaded not guilty in federal court Wednesday and was released without bail. His lawyer says Quintana is declining comment.
