Dozens Arrested In Nationwide Medicare Abuse Crackdown
DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroit is one of several cities being targeted by federal officials in a crackdown of those who abuse Medicare.
Attorney General Eric Holder Wednesday announced charges against 91 people, 19 of whom were arrested last week in Detroit and Miami. The suspects, including doctors and other medical professionals, are accused of allegedly participating in Medicare fraud schemes involving $295 million in false billing.
"Each is charged with defrauding the Medicare program," said Assistant Attorney General Lanny Breuer.
Speaking to reporters, Breuer singled out one of the Detroit cases.
"A doctor in Detroit allegedly billed Medicare for performing psychotherapy treatments for more than 24 hours per day," said Breuer. "He is also charged with billing the Medicare program for services provided to dead beneficiaries."
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius called the law enforcement initiative a powerful warning to those who would try to defraud taxpayers and Medicare beneficiaries and jeopardize the integrity of the nation's health care system.
There were arrests as well in Houston, Los Angeles, Chicago and Baton Rouge.
