Ertner v. County of Chenango
Petitioner, a correction officer employed by the Chenango County Sheriff's Department, sustained injuries after falling downstairs while inspecting cells at the County Jail. She was awarded workers' compensation benefits but subsequently denied General Municipal Law § 207-c benefits, with the denial based on the injury not being incurred during a job function "peculiar to a correction officer." Petitioner's challenge to this determination was dismissed by the Supreme Court. On appeal, the Court affirmed the dismissal, distinguishing between Workers' Compensation Law and General Municipal Law § 207-c, stating the latter applies to injuries incurred from "heightened risks and duties" peculiar to specialized employment, which a fall down stairs is not considered.