New York Training Provider Pleads Guilty to Selling Fake OSHA Cards

A New York City training provider and its former president have pleaded guilty to charges related to issuing tens of thousands of fraudulent construction safety certificates and OSHA training cards.

On June 6, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced that Alexander Shaporov, former president of Valor Security & Investigations, admitted to operating the scheme. The company and Shaporov each pleaded guilty to one count of attempted enterprise corruption, 10 counts of offering a false instrument for filing, and one count of reckless endangerment.

Prosecutors stated that between December 2019 and April 2023, Valor collaborated with brokers to sell counterfeit safety credentials, including 40-hour training cards, supervisor cards, and specialized training documents, to unqualified buyers. Many of the records were backdated. The fraudulent cards were sold for $300–$600 each and were used by workers to gain employment on construction sites without completing the required safety instruction.

The consequences of the scam were severe. In 2022, a construction worker who held falsified training paperwork died after falling from the 15th floor of a building under construction.

As part of the plea agreement, Shaporov is expected to serve one year in jail, perform 100 hours of community service, and pay a $100,000 fine. Valor Security & Investigations has had its security license permanently revoked.

“Valor Security is facing accountability for operating a sham safety training school, imperiling the workers in one of New York’s most dangerous industries,” District Attorney Bragg stated.

NYC Department of Investigation Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity in training programs: “Ignoring the city’s construction training standards poses grave risks and can have tragic consequences.”

The case highlights the crucial role of effective safety training in safeguarding workers and the public. Fraudulent credentials not only undermine trust in the system but can also result in costly consequences, including loss of life. Safety professionals are reminded to remain vigilant and verify training documentation to ensure compliance and protect workers on the job.

For safety managers and employers, this incident serves as a reminder to select reputable and accredited training providers. Organizations like the National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP) deliver validated standards-based education that helps ensure workers truly understand and apply safety principles. Investing in trusted training not only satisfies regulatory requirements but also builds a safer workplace culture and saves lives.