Louisiana woman accused of Medicaid fraud

The Medicaid system is among the programs nationwide that are carefully monitored to avoid misuse and fraud. When it is believed that someone is taking advantage of the program, the consequences in Louisiana courts can be harsh. One woman who stands accused of fraud may be learning just how much so.

A Raceland woman was recently arrested and booked on allegations of fraud. The woman, a 23-year-old personal care attendant, is accused of Medicaid fraud. According to authorities, it is believed that she turned in time sheets indicating the work that she was performing, when in reality, it was the family members who were providing the care.

The Louisiana Attorney General has released few details surrounding the alleged misuse of the Medicaid system. What is already known, however, is that should the woman be convicted, she faces serious penalties. If convicted, she could face a maximum sentence of up to five years’ incarceration plus fines of $20,000.

Like anyone accused of a crime in our state, this woman is presumed innocent of the fraud charges unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Without proper support, this woman could find herself convicted of the charges against her, leading her down a dismal road. It is important for anyone accused of fraud or any criminal act in Louisiana to understand their rights and responsibilities, and to carefully consider who they have in their support system. There is a substantial difference between a criminal accusation and a conviction, and she has the right to confront witnesses who testify against her as well as to challenge any physical evidence offered in support of the charges by the prosecution.

Source: katc.com, “Raceland woman booked on Medicaid fraud charge,” Nov. 6, 2012