White collar crimes are serious offenses that are usually committed through deceitful acts for financial gain. Fraudulent acts like mail fraud, embezzlement, tax fraud, Ponzi scheme, money laundering, identity theft and forgery are some of the most common examples of white collar crimes. A person accused of a white-collar crime may face both criminal and civil liabilities. Upon conviction, the suspect may be required to pay restitution, fines and penalties and other serious repercussions.
Recently, a 44-year-old man was arrested after Medicaid Fraud Control Unit agents suspected that he had falsified his diploma in order for him to be qualified as a Mental Health Professional in Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana. In 2011, the suspect applied to a Monroe-based Medicaid provider. The suspect allegedly presented a diploma showing his Master’s degree in Human Services and other supporting documents including transcripts. Here in Louisiana, the state requires a person who is applying for MHP to have a Master’s Degree in a mental health related or social work field.
An anonymous tip got the attention of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit agents. The agents found out that the suspect did not attend the college in Ireland. Additionally, the same institution does not even offer a Master’s degree in Health Services.
The 44-year-old man was charged with one felony count of Medicaid fraud. The claims sent by the Monroe-based provider were deemed fraudulent because the MHP employee was unqualified, thus the state will not reimburse the rendered services.
In cases like this, the suspect has to establish a strong defense in order for him to effectively contest all the damaging allegations. The suspect can explore all his legal options with the help of a legal professional adept in handling criminal law cases.
Source: Thenewstar.com, “Man accused of impersonating mental health professional in Monroe,” Dec. 13, 2013
