Following a prior conviction of 12 people in connection with fraudulent Medicaid claims, three more were recently convicted in a federal court. One of them is a 48-year-old Charlotte resident who prosecutors reported to be the leader of the conspiracy that involved $10 million in health care fraud. The others were two 38-year-old individuals — both from South Carolina — one was convicted, and one pleaded guilty to health care fraud conspiracy.
Court documents indicate that the scheme was carried out from October 2012 through August 2013. Prosecutors say the lead conspirator directed her accomplices to create documents to support fake claims to be filed with Medicaid. The claims were for mental health diagnoses, treatment plans, and therapy services — none of which were carried out. The personal information of Medicaid recipients was fraudulently used, leading to additional charges of identity theft.
The 48-year-old woman apparently owned one company that specialized in mental health business operations and Medicaid claims refunds. The other two individuals were found to be the co-owners of two similar businesses in Rockingham. Reportedly, the conspiracy leader may have to serve a 10-year term in federal prison.
After being found guilty on multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit health care fraud, making false statements, identity theft and more, the legal representatives of this South Carolina resident will likely be working on gathering evidence of mitigating circumstances. The ongoing support of an experienced criminal defense attorney can be invaluable at this time. An attorney will continue to advocate for the client while presenting evidence that might lead to a less severe sentence.
Source: charlotteobserver.com, “Leader of $10 million Medicaid fraud in Charlotte found guilty“, Rachel Stone, July 15, 2016
