Former New Orleans Officer and Nevada Attorney Accused in Insurance Fraud Scheme

Christian Conrad Claus, a former New Orleans police officer and current criminal defense attorney in Nevada, is facing federal charges for allegedly orchestrating an insurance fraud scheme. Prosecutors claim Claus conspired with New Orleans homeowner Fouad Zeton and Nevada art dealer Michael Jon Schofield to submit a fraudulent insurance claim involving falsely reported stolen artwork. Claus allegedly used his position as an officer to facilitate the scheme, later making false statements to the FBI about his involvement.

Zeton and Schofield have both pleaded guilty in connection with the case, while Claus maintains his innocence. Despite the indictment, Claus continues to practice law in Nevada without any disciplinary action from the state bar. His brother, also a defense attorney, insists that the charges have no impact on his legal work.

The case traces back to 2019 when Claus responded to Zeton’s burglary report and allegedly helped inflate the value of missing artwork. Prosecutors say he encouraged Zeton to add paintings to the claim and arranged for Schofield to provide an exaggerated valuation. Body camera footage reportedly captures Claus staging interactions to support the fraudulent claim. If convicted, Claus faces serious penalties for conspiracy, mail fraud, wire fraud, and bribery-related charges.