(The following story by Shay Randle appeared on The Advertiser website on June 2.)
LAFAYETTE, La. — Lafayette Police are investigating what BNSF Railway officials may consider fraudulent claims by residents living near the area where a dangerous chemical was spilled in last month’s train derailment.
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Cpl. Paul Mouton, spokesman for Lafayette Police Department, said BNSF officials have brought some claims to light that may have been falsified by residents.
The railway is concerned some residents not living in the evacuation area, a 1-mile radius of the Ambassador Caffery Parkway overpass, have “fraudulently placed themselves at addresses or have driver license addresses changed for the purpose of filing a claim,” according to the police department news release.
Six of the railroad’s cars derailed May 17, and one leaked more than 10,000 gallons of hydrochloric acid. BNSF has made funds available to compensate residents who were required to leave their homes for the 48-hour evacuation period.
Mouton said his department is investigating the information BNSF has given it, but no actual report has been filed.
“BNSF has to look into things and find out if there are really any discrepancies. Then, they can file a report,” Mouton said.
Those persons who submit fraudulent claims and are convicted of theft and fraud violations could face imprisonment with or without hard labor for up to 10 years, or fines up to $3,000 or both.