A Maine-based life insurance company has initiated a federal lawsuit involving Brian Crossman Jr., who is currently facing charges for the murder of his father, Brian Crossman Sr., his father’s wife, Erica Pawlusiak, and her son in September 2024. The lawsuit pertains to the life insurance benefits of Brian Crossman Sr., an employee of Green Mountain Power.
Background of the Case
Brian Crossman Sr. had named his wife, Erica Pawlusiak, as the sole beneficiary of his life insurance policy administered by Unum Life Insurance Company. Following the tragic deaths, it was determined that the benefits would be distributed among the surviving family members since the primary beneficiary was deceased.
Insurance Benefits Distribution
Unum Life Insurance Company has already disbursed 50% of the benefits, amounting to $258,000, to Rachel Crossman, Brian Crossman Jr.’s sister. The remaining $258,000 is being held pending the court’s decision regarding Brian Crossman Jr.’s eligibility to receive the benefits.
Legal Proceedings
The lawsuit references both federal common law and the Vermont ‘slayer’ statute, which stipulates that an individual cannot benefit financially from their criminal actions. Unum Life Insurance Company has requested the court to determine the distribution of the remaining benefits between Brian Crossman Jr. and his sister, Rachel Crossman. The company also seeks legal protection from potential future litigation related to the distribution of these benefits.
Current Status
Brian Crossman Jr. is currently incarcerated at the Southern State Correctional Facility in Springfield, Vermont, facing three counts of aggravated murder. Despite multiple attempts by Unum Life Insurance Company to contact him regarding his interest in the death benefits, there has been no response from Crossman Jr.
The case raises complex legal questions about the intersection of criminal law and insurance benefits, particularly in cases where the beneficiary is accused of the policyholder’s murder.
