An Illinois Appellate Court upheld a lower court’s decision, rejecting a Berwyn police officer’s challenge to the commencement date and amount of his disability benefits. The officer, Michael Vokac, was injured in March 2020 and had been receiving benefits under the Public Employee Disability Act, but disputed when his pension benefits should have started and how much they should be.
Officer’s Injury: Berwyn police officer Michael Vokac was injured in March 2020 while attempting to subdue an individual, requiring multiple surgeries that prevented his return to duty.
Prior Benefits: He had been receiving benefits under the Public Employee Disability Act, which paid his full salary, with pension contributions deducted from the payments.
Court’s Ruling: The appellate court found that the original decision regarding the commencement date of his pension and the benefit amount was correct, denying the officer’s challenge.
Source: Work Comp Central