PHOENIX – As in years past, the Arizona Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) was a major contributor to the annual National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action. The nationwide results of this United States Department of Justice coordinated action, was announced earlier today by US Attorney General Merrick Garland. Attorney General Garland highlighted details of two of the many cases that the Arizona Attorney General brought during the focused case charging period of June 10-26, 2024.
“I am deeply proud of the work of my office’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit,” said Attorney General Mayes. “The work they are doing is garnering national attention – and with good reason. Their commitment and dogged-determination on behalf of the people of our state is an example of excellence in public service and a testament to our ongoing efforts to protect Arizonans. Their achievements not only reflect their hard work but also highlight our dedication to ensuring justice and accountability.”
During this two-week period, the Attorney General’s Office brought charges through the State Grand Jury against a total of 30 defendants for offenses that include:
Drug diversion of controlled substances by licensed prescribers, vulnerable adult abuse by a licensed dentist, criminal conduct alleged to be committed by a dental imposter, and numerous cases related to behavioral health billing fraud and the associated schemes of patient brokering which have victimized our Arizona’s Tribal communities along with other vulnerable members of our population.
The indictments filed by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office during the two-week enforcement period will be made publicly available after the defendants have been served.
Background:
In 2020, the Attorney General’s Office began investigating alleged crimes related to fraudulent sober living homes and generated its first property seizures in 2020 and its first criminal indictments in 2021.
Since taking office in 2023, Attorney General Mayes prioritized these cases for criminal investigation and prosecution. Additionally, Attorney General Mayes helped ensured coordination with other state agencies in a joint government effort to stop criminal enterprises from exploiting vulnerable populations.
To date, AGO MFCU has brought 97 indictments related to behavioral health crimes – 69 of which occurred during Attorney General Mayes’ administration. The Arizona Attorney General’s Office has been responsible for bringing about the forfeiture and/or seizure of over $140 million worth in cash, real estate holdings, vehicles, and luxury assets related to these alleged crimes.
The Department of Justice press release is available here.
