Man accused of faking injuries, stealing $300K in benefits May 25, 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail KALAMA, Wash. (AP) — A Kalama man is facing one count of theft after a Washington Labor & Industries investigation alleges he was faking injuries to collect nearly $300,000 in workers’ compensation benefits. Labor & Industries says James Thomasson was hurt while working as a logger in 2006, The Daily News reported. A tree hit his leg, causing bruises and abrasions. A year later, the state said he claimed he hurt his back while using a wedge to fell a tree in Shelton. Thomasson’s medical provider told the department he couldn’t work because of his injuries, and he was eligible to receive payments for part of his lost wages.