News Summary
The Department of Justice has made its largest healthcare fraud takedown, charging 324 individuals nationwide, including cases from South Carolina. With an estimated $14.6 billion in false billings and over 15 million pills diverted, the operation emphasizes the need to protect vulnerable populations and maintain integrity in healthcare programs. Key cases from South Carolina reveal serious allegations against individuals defrauding Medicare and the Veterans Administration. This historic effort showcases the government’s commitment to fighting healthcare fraud.
Columbia, South Carolina
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced its largest takedown of healthcare fraud in history, which includes significant cases from South Carolina. A total of 324 individuals have been charged nationwide for their alleged involvement in healthcare fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes, leading to extensive financial damage and harm to vulnerable populations, particularly veterans.
During a press conference, South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, alongside North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson and other law officials, detailed the serious nature of these fraud cases. The alleged fraudulent activities across the country have resulted in an estimated $14.6 billion in false billings, as well as the illegal diversion of over 15 million pills of controlled substances. The operation has enabled authorities to seize over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and various assets linked to the fraud.
Key Cases from South Carolina
Among those charged from South Carolina is 67-year-old Tina Marie Armstrong of Florence. She faces charges for healthcare fraud and aggravated identity theft after allegedly filing false claims to Medicare and Medicaid. Armstrong is accused of submitting claims for durable medical equipment that was either unauthorized, no longer in service, or never delivered. The claims totaled $198,981.55, of which $104,577.74 was reportedly paid to her business, Safe at Home Medical Equipment and Supplies, LLC. The prosecution of Armstrong’s case will be handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Winston Holliday.
Additionally, 51-year-old Dee Alice Moton from Hephzibah, Georgia, has been charged with defrauding the Veterans Administration. She is accused of billing for services not provided to veterans while operating Flowing Hands Massage Clinical Therapy in Aiken, South Carolina. Over two years, Moton allegedly defrauded the VA out of $2,373,147.22 by billing for unnecessary treatments and services that were never rendered, including wheelchair therapy for a veteran who does not use a wheelchair. Her case will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Matthews and Amy Bower.
Government Response
The DOJ’s ongoing effort to tackle healthcare fraud is designed to protect vulnerable citizens and uphold the integrity of healthcare programs. U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling emphasized the damaging consequences of healthcare fraud, noting that it places a significant burden on taxpayers and undermines the trust of citizens, especially those relying on veteran services. The operation exemplifies the government’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who exploit the healthcare system for personal gain.
Background on Healthcare Fraud
Healthcare fraud encompasses various unlawful schemes to obtain improper payments or services from healthcare providers or insurers. The fraudulent activities can include billing for services not rendered, misrepresenting services, and inappropriately diverting prescription medications. Such fraud not only costs taxpayers billions of dollars annually but also jeopardizes the quality of care for those most in need, including elderly and disabled individuals.
This historic takedown, the largest in DOJ history, is seen as a major step in combating healthcare fraud nationwide. The involvement of law enforcement officials from multiple states signifies the collaborative effort needed to address the pervasive issue of fraud within the healthcare system. Authorities are committed to ensuring justice for victims and maintaining the integrity of healthcare programs vital to many American citizens.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Two South Carolina Women Charged in Health Care Fraud Scheme
Additional Resources
- WIS News: Two South Carolina Cases Part of Largest Healthcare Fraud Takedown in History
- Wikipedia: Healthcare Fraud
- WMBF News: Pee Dee Woman’s Federal Healthcare Fraud Charges Part of Larger Crackdown
- Google Search: Healthcare Fraud
- WRDW: South Carolina Fails Maternal and Infant Health Data Shows
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rick Scott
- The State: Local Crime News
- Google News: Healthcare Fraud
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
