CBP recognized for support of largest health care fraud takedown in American history

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) in Florida recently recognized U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for supporting the largest health care fraud takedown in American history.

The nationwide sweep, led by the Medicare Fraud Strike Force in 35 federal districts, led to criminal and civil charges against 301 individuals for their alleged participation in health care fraud schemes totaling approximately $900 million in false billings.

“Health care providers and patients are key to protecting the Medicare and Medicaid programs, but when they instead choose to commit fraud or to lie in order to obtain government benefits they are not entitled to, they steal precious tax dollars and corrupt the integrity of our health care system,” Shimon R. Richmond, special agent in charge for HHS OIG, said. “We count on partners such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This takedown reflects the dedication of OIG and our law enforcement partners to bring such fraudsters to justice.”

The strike force, located in the southern district of Florida, charged 100 defendants with offenses related to their participation in various fraud schemes totaling approximately $220 million in false billings for home health care, mental health services and pharmacy fraud.

“CBP is committed to fighting fraud with the unparalleled support of an ever-expanding network of law enforcement partners in Florida and this latest commendation is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of our officers,” Diane J. Sabatino, director of field operations for CBP’s Miami and Tampa field offices, said. “CBP enforces more than 400 laws and regulations for 40 different agencies and will continue to work alongside local, state and federal government partners every day to protect the public.”