Our success story

Workplace Investigation and Surveillance Exposing False Injury Claims

The case background

A corporate client engaged Serpenti Investigations NZ to assist with a sensitive workplace matter involving an employee who had lodged an ACC claim for a significant injury.

The employee had been absent from work for an extended period, materially impacting the company’s operational capacity and project deliverables.

Given inconsistencies observed in the employee’s communications and ongoing business disruption, the employer sought independent verification of the claim’s validity.

Our Objective

Discreetly observe the employee’s activities to determine whether their physical condition was consistent with the injury reported, and provide clear, admissible evidence to support appropriate employer action.

"Serpenti Investigations delivered exactly what we needed — discreet, professional evidence that protected our business interests and empowered us to take informed, compliant action.
Their professionalism was exceptional throughout."
— HR Director, Corporate Client
Our Approach to the case
  • Planning and Deployment:
    Developed a discreet surveillance plan ensuring full compliance with legal standards and ethical practices.
  • Surveillance Operations:
    Conducted targeted physical surveillance over a structured observation period, documenting the employee’s day-to-day activities.
  • Evidence Capture:
    Obtained photographic and video evidence showing the employee engaging in activities that would have been incompatible with their stated injuries (e.g., lifting heavy objects, active mobility beyond reported limitations).
  • Professional Reporting:
    Compiled a comprehensive evidentiary report, including date-stamped photographs and detailed activity logs, delivered to the employer’s executive team.
Our Results

Surveillance conclusively demonstrated that the employee was capable of performing work activities, contradicting the claimed injury restrictions.

Armed with professional evidence, the employer was able to initiate appropriate action regarding the employee's status and liaise with ACC for a reassessment of the claim.

Business operations were protected, and significant financial risk exposure was mitigated.

Timeframe

3 Weeks from Engagement to evidence submission

Facing a similar situation?

Every case is different, but the challenges can feel the same. If this sounds familiar, talk to us today — we’re here to help.