Michigan residents might be interested in a case that involves three members of the U.S. military. Federal prosecutors reported that a member of the U.S. Navy and two Marines were indicted after an investigation that lasted four years. The white collar crimes charges relate to an alleged scheme of defrauding the national military health care program.
According to court documents, the defendants marketed exorbitantly expensive medication and topical creams among friends and family. It was mostly for monetary gain because the products were unwanted by the named patients, and also unnecessary. Reportedly, the Marines and other individuals received about $300 as kickbacks per month.
In a press release, the U.S. Department of Justice says doctors who were co-conspirators signed 4,442 prescriptions over six months from Dec. 2014 through May 2015. During this period, prescriptions to the value of $65,679,512 were billed to TRICARE, the military medical insurance company. An Assistant U.S. Attorney reported that the scope of the scheme included medical doctors, registered nurses, pharmacists and more, some of whom have already been indicted and others convicted in this case that the media has dubbed the “creme scheme.”
The three military members pleaded not guilty to charges of health care fraud, mail fraud, wire fraud, money laundering and illegal kickbacks. However, they will remain innocent before the court until, and only if, the prosecution can prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Just like those who might face similar charges in Michigan, each defendant will likely rely upon the services of a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in dealing with white collar crimes. Based on the available facts and evidence, the attorneys will work to devise defense strategies that will focus on the most favorable outcome for the clients.