In The Line Of Duty
Half of California's law enforcement and public safety officers retire with disability benefits that entitle them to a lifetime of tax-free payments equal to half their final annual salary. Under state law, chronic lower back pain can earn someone a disability pension, as can cancer and even hernias. One prison guard who hurt his knee carrying a large coffee pot is also drawing disability. And one investigator is drawing benefits from both the Department of Motor Vehicles and the San Diego Sheriff's Department.