Three Maryland men were taken into custody for their roles in an alleged prescription fraud scheme that authorities say netted them over $2.5 million. Aggravated identity theft charges the men face are in addition to one count each of health care fraud.
The men, ages 45, 30 and 27, are accused of perpetrating a scheme in which they would fill refills for actual pharmacy customers who had them remaining on their prescriptions. Authorities say that the men, who all worked at pharmacies owned by the 45-year-old, would then pocket the money that came in from insurance companies to pay for the prescriptions’ costs. Then, since no one had actually requested a refill, the men would allegedly restock the refills that had not been picked up by the customers because they had never been requested.
Each man indicted in the alleged fraud scheme faces a minimum of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft. This is in addition to the possible 10-year sentence each faces on the health care fraud charges. They may also be slapped with a $250,000 fine if convicted of participation in the fraudulent activities.
Theft charge convictions and penalties can ruin lives. Even after fines are paid and time served, the future impact of a criminal record can destroy a reputation. An attorney experienced in criminal law and defending individuals against theft and property crimes charges may be able to help when it comes to mitigating the effects of an arrest or even a conviction. Such a lawyer may help by arranging a plea bargain for lesser charges and penalties. An attorney may also be helpful in closely examining the investigation and arrest records for any flaws that could result in a dismissal of charges.
Source: Columbia Patch, “Columbia Man Indicted for Health Fraud, Identity Theft“, Brandie Jefferson, July 30, 2013