(NewsReady.com) – In mid-May, the Department of Justice announced a new task force to tackle COVID-19 fraud. Attorney General Merrick Garland said the department already charged people with crimes totaling more than $600 million. Just weeks after announcing the task force, federal authorities have charged even more people.
On May 27, the FBI revealed that the DOJ has charged 14 more people with their alleged participation in COVID-19 schemes that resulted in more than $143 million in medical fraud.
Justice Department Announces Coordinated Law Enforcement Action to Combat #COVID19-Related Health Care Fraud: @TheJusticeDept announced criminal charges against 14 defendants for their alleged participation in various schemes that resulted in over $143 million in false billings. pic.twitter.com/gMTwPXbdT4
— FBI (@FBI) May 27, 2021
In a statement, Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco said the defendants, which include medical professionals and corporate executives, allegedly took advantage of the pandemic to “line their own pockets instead of providing needed health care services” during this critical time of need. She went on to say the agency is committed to protecting the American people and health care programs in place to help citizens.
If you suspect someone is committing COVID-19 related fraud, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud at (866) 720-5721 or file a complaint online HERE.
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