Health care fraud enforcement leads to charges against 324 defendants

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Health care fraud enforcement leads to charges against 324 defendants

Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr., U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan | Department of Justice

United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced significant developments in a nationwide crackdown on health care fraud and illegal drug distribution schemes. The Department of Justice's 2025 National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action has led to criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged involvement in fraudulent activities that targeted federal health care programs like Medicare and Medicaid.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, "Today’s record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown sends a crystal-clear message to criminal actors, both foreign and domestic, intent on preying upon our most vulnerable citizens and stealing from hardworking American taxpayers: we will find you; we will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law."

The coordinated action uncovered schemes involving over $14.6 billion in intended loss and more than 15 million illegally diverted pills. Authorities have seized assets valued at over $245 million as part of the operation.

In Michigan's Eastern District, several individuals were charged with conspiracy related to the unlawful distribution of controlled substances such as Oxycodone, Percocet, and Norco. Civil resolutions also addressed $6 million in fraud targeting Medicare and Medicaid funds.

United States Attorney Gorgon emphasized collaboration with various agencies to protect healthcare integrity: “We are proud to partner with the Fraud Section Healthcare Fraud Strike Force to protect patients and preserve the integrity of our healthcare system.”

Operation Gold Rush focused on foreign attempts to defraud Medicare by more than $10 billion. Special Agent Cheyvoryea Gibson highlighted ongoing efforts against those exploiting community well-being for personal gain.

Additional civil settlements involve Villa Financial Services LLC and associated nursing homes agreeing to pay $4.5 million for alleged violations of the False Claims Act due to inadequate resident care services. Wahid Makki and Zainab Makki agreed to a $1.5 million settlement concerning false claims for undispensed prescription drugs.

The government continues its focus on combating health care fraud through investigations led by multiple federal agencies, encouraging public reporting of potential fraud cases.

A complaint or indictment is merely an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.