Feds Want Cancer Doctor's Bond Upped To $9 Million
DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - Prosecutors want a judge to set a $9 million bond in the case of a Detroit-area cancer specialist accused of intentionally misdiagnosing patients.
A magistrate last week ruled that Dr. Farid Fata could be released from jail under strict conditions — including that he wear an electronic tether, agree not to see patients, and remain confined to his home.
But the U.S. attorney's office is appealing, saying Fata — who was born in Lebanon — may flee the country.
In a filing Monday, prosecutors said they want the current $170,000 bond increased to $9 million. They're also asking that Fata prove the funds came from a "legitimate, and not illegitimate, source."
In his filing, defense lawyer Christopher Andreoff requests "a reasonable cash bond that" Fata can post. He said his client is a U.S. citizen, with few ties to his native country, and will not flee.
Detroit federal Judge Sean Cox will hold a hearing Tuesday.
The government says Fata, who owns Michigan Hematology Oncology, ripped off Medicare for millions of dollars by giving chemotherapy to patients who didn't need it and diagnosing cancer when the illness wasn't apparent. [View a copy of the complaint].
Prosecutors are still looking for victims in this case. Patients of Fata who have questions concerning their medical records and/or information regarding this investigation and prosecution are urged to call the U.S. Attorney's Office Information Line at 888-702-0553.
MORE: Advocate: It's OK To Question Your Doctor
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