Massive Hospice Fraud Bust: Over $50 Million Scammed in California

The FBI arrested eight individuals in California for defrauding the national healthcare system of over $50 million through sham hospice facilities. Charges include Medicare fraud and illegal kickbacks, highlighting significant vulnerabilities in the healthcare sector.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has detained eight individuals in California, accusing them of defrauding the national healthcare system of over $50 million. This crackdown targets sham hospice care facilities allegedly billing Medicare illegitimately.

Key arrests include Gladwin and Amelou Gill, owners of 626 Hospice, who allegedly defrauded Medicare by paying illegal kickbacks for non-terminal patient referrals. The Gill couple is accused of filing fraudulent claims worth $5.2 million, with Medicare disbursing over $4 million on these claims.

Others charged are Lolita Beronilla Minerd, owner of Topanga Hospice Care Inc., for $9 million in fraudulent claims, and Sonia Griffen, Gregory Cartmell, and Ivan Verne Lauritzen, all implicated in various healthcare fraud operations. The FBI emphasizes healthcare fraud significantly impacts taxpayers, escalating costs and decreasing benefits.

(With inputs from agencies.)