Worker's Alleged Fiancee Lost Entitlement to Death Benefits by Lying About Sources of Income

A Louisiana appellate court ruled that the alleged fiancee of a worker forfeited her entitlement to death benefits by failing to disclose that she was receiving financial assistance in anticipation of her unborn child's adoption. Case: Heathcoate v. D&D Drilling and Exploration, No. 16-167, 09/28/2016, published. Facts: Christopher Farmer died in July 2014 while working for D&D Drilling and Exploration on an oil rig. Mary Heathcoate filed a claim for death benefits, claiming she was Farmer's fiancee and financial dependent. Heathcoate testified that she was living with...