Virginia hospital indicted for healthcare fraud

by Madie MacDonald, Jimmy LaRoue

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) — Chesapeake Regional Medical Center (CRMC) has been charged with healthcare fraud and conspiracy to defraud the U.S. as well as interference with government functions after a federal grand jury returned an indictment Wednesday.

The hospital, as alleged in the indictment, gave privileges to Javaid Perwaiz from 1984 until he was arrested in 2019, even after knowing he had been terminated at another hospital for performing unnecessary surgeries, and that, in 1996, he was convicted of two federal felonies.

From 2010 to 2019, the hospital allegedly received about $18.5 million in reimbursements from healthcare benefit programs for surgical and obstetric procedures that Perwaiz performed at the hospital.

“After Dr. Perwaiz was convicted of performing irreversible hysterectomies and other medically unnecessary surgeries on women, we continued to investigate the role that [Chesapeake Regional Medical Center] played,” said Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, in a statement. “As alleged in the indictment, Dr. Perwaiz did not act alone in this conspiracy to needlessly sterilize and otherwise harm women. The grand jury found … that [the hospital] was complicit in this horrifying scheme to place profits over patient care.”

According to the indictment, both the hospital and Perwaiz had agreed to allow him to keep performing the surgeries, which were considered in violation of the rules and regulations of the healthcare benefit programs. In addition, the hospital allegedly defrauded Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, Anthem, Optima, Humana, Cigna, Aetna, United and others in order to receive reimbursements for obstetric deliveries for no medical reason before 39 weeks of gestation.

“These latest charges are the next step toward justice for the women that were significantly impacted by Perwaiz’s predatory actions, as well as the negligence of Chesapeake Regional Medical Center,” Brian Dugan, Special Agent in charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, said. “The hospital’s prioritization of profits jeopardized the safety of many of their patients, many whom had full trust in them to provide reliable medical care. The FBI and our partners will continue to hold all parties responsible who abuse positions of power in such a manner, and that’s what today’s charges reflect.” 

The indictment also alleges that Perwaiz performed the obstetric deliveries exclusively at CRMC, regularly scheduling the elective inductions on Saturdays when Perwaiz was already scheduled to be at the hospital to perform surgeries.

In order to schedule the deliveries, the indictment alleges that Perwaiz submitted obstetric flowsheets to the hospital, which often had two different delivery dates — one due date accurate and within the standard of care, while the other was fabricated to appear as if the patient was at or after 39 weeks of gestation at the time of delivery.

According to a review for Medicaid patients in 2019, approximately 64% of the forms were found to be altered, ultimately resulting in around 39% of Perwaiz’s patients being induced before 39 weeks of gestation for no medical reason. The indictment alleges the hospital was aware of the changes, but continued to allow Perwaiz to continue the practices.

“As alleged in today’s indictment, CRMC knowingly disregarded patient care and allowed Dr. Perwaiz’s unnecessary surgeries, in order to increase its own revenue,” Maureen Dixon, Special Agent in charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), said. “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners are committed to investigating allegations of patient harm and theft from federal health insurance programs.”

CRMC allegedly was aware that Perwaiz regularly misclassified inpatient surgeries as outpatient procedures, allowing him to continue to perform the surgeries. In addition, the hospital also allegedly knew that some health care benefit programs would refuse to reimburse a hospital for inpatient procedures performed on an outpatient basis, that most private health care benefit programs reimbursed the procedures at a lower rate, and that the inpatient surgeries were more scrutinized.

“Ensuring the full measure of justice is brought to all those complicit in the heinous acts committed by Dr. Perwaiz is of the highest priority,” Special Agent in charge Christopher W. Dillard of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the law enforcement arm of the DoD’s Office of Inspector General, said. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to work with our partner agencies to pursue individuals and corporations for fraudulent actions, particularly those that involve patient harm.”

Perwaiz was also allegedly allowed by the hospital to perform his surgeries outside of the scheduling policies for non-emergent surgical cases, often performing his Saturday surgeries on late Friday afternoons. Perwaiz also was said to have performed sterilizations of Medicaid patients without the valid consent forms. The hospital allegedly knew this and allowed him to continue to perform the sterilizations.

In September of 1983, Perwaiz, who was a solo practitioner at the time, applied for privileges at CRMC, as alleged in the indictment. The hospital’s president at the time, Donald Buckley, who remained the president and CEO until 2005, had allegedly been notified by Perwaiz’ previous place of employment, Maryview Hospital, that Perwaiz was terminated for performing unnecessary surgeries.

At first, according to the indictment, CRMC’s president declared Perwaiz unacceptable for appointment, but later granted him privileges in April of 1984.

Perwaiz, as alleged in the indictment, continuously conducted office visits, in-office diagnostic procedures, inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures and obstetric deliveries — including hysterectomies — at the hospital up until his arrest on Nov. 8, 2019. Most of the procedures were said to have taken place on Saturdays.

In addition to the alleged procedures, in 1995, Perwaiz was indicted on six counts of felony tax fraud. Perwaiz ended up pleading guilty to two of the counts and admitted to “extensive fraudulent conduct, including falsely claiming a Ferrari as an ultrasound machine so he could write it off as a business expense.

In November of 2020, one year after Perwaiz was arrested, he was convicted of 52 counts of health care fraud and false statements, and was sentenced to a total of 59 years in prison. Around 38 of those counts were for procedures conducted at CRMC. 

According to the indictment, the hospital reviewed the credentials of their physicians, including Perwaiz, every two years.

Perwaiz’s re-credentialing packet allegedly had all of the information regarding his felony conviction, hospital suspension and notes of medical malpractice lawsuits. His was last re-credentialed just five months before his arrest.

Anyone who believes they may be a victim in this case or who has information regarding this matter is urged to contact the HHS-OIG tipline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS /1-800-447-8477 or online at tips.oig.hhs.gov.

Full Article & Source:
Virginia hospital indicted for healthcare fraud

Florida woman arrested, accused of assaulting elderly employer after being denied $500 bonus

A woman is facing felony charges after detectives said she allegedly assaulted an elderly woman who refused to pay her a $500 Christmas bonus. Heather Nelson, 29, is now facing more than half a dozen charges, including robbery, aggravated battery, forgery, fraud, and grand theft, according to the Brevard County Clerk of the Court.

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Florida woman arrested, accused of assaulting elderly employer after being denied $500 bonus

‘Neglect,’ ‘exploitation’ by Kent County guardian prompt criminal enterprise charge

by: Susan Samples

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A joint investigation by detectives in Grand Rapids, Walker and Kent County uncovered a public guardian’s “wide-ranging scheme” to exploit vulnerable adults, according to court records.

Kimberley St. Onge, who served as a guardian through Kent County Probate Court, is charged with conducting a criminal enterprise, a 20-year-felony, and embezzlement from a vulnerable adult more than $1,000 but less than $20,000.

“St. Onge, acting as a legal guardian for multiple individuals, systematically diverted funds meant to support the basic needs of vulnerable adults,” a Grand Rapids detective wrote in a probable cause affidavit filed Dec. 17 in 61st District Court. “Across all cases, St. Onge exhibited a clear and deliberate pattern of financial exploitation, commingling funds, and neglecting her legal and moral responsibilities as a guardian.”

The complaint lists 12 alleged victims and/or complainants who lost a total of $43,650 in amounts that ranged from $2,351 to $12,968.

However, in an initial fraud case filed in May, a detective reported that Kent County’s guardianship program, which investigated promptly when allegations surfaced, estimated St. Onge’s “mass embezzlement” could surpass $100,000.

According to the December affidavit, St. Onge allegedly cashed her wards’ federal supplemental security income checks at nonbank locations, including Walmart and a liquor store, before depositing them into her own accounts and using them for personal expenses, like gas and hotel stays.

In multiple cases, the detective went on to write, there was no evidence that the wards’ funds were used to pay their housing costs or personal expenses.

In the affidavit filed in May, another Grand Rapids detective reported that checks fraudulently cashed on a ward’s bank account were made out to St. Onge’s son and mother.

“This affiant is aware of five checks which were written between 04/02/24 and 05/05/24 that were not authorized payments for legitimate purposes on behalf of (one of St. Onge’s wards),” wrote the Grand Rapids detective in the May case, “These checks totaled $2,400.”

A friend of the alleged victim in that case noticed suspicious activity on her friend’s bank account, notified probate court and helped the ward file a report with the Grand Rapids Police Department.

“I first saw a check come through for $600 to some name I never heard of and then several others,” the friend told Target 8 in an interview at her northwest Grand Rapids home, “and then another $300 and another $300, and they weren’t things we’d normally pay.”

Target 8 is identifying the ward’s friend by her first name only, Joann, to maintain her privacy. She was conducting a living room Bible study when Target 8 knocked on her door.

“Every day I wake up and I ask God to give me wisdom,” she explained.

Fittingly, it was Joann’s desire to serve that exposed a woman who, according to police, served only herself. Joann had previously managed the finances of a woman with special needs she met at church.

“I knew (she) was struggling with her finance situation and there was no family available to help her so I stepped in and told her I would pay her bills for her,” explained Joann, who’s 83. “So my name got put on her checking account, so it was easier to do. Then one day, I decided I was getting older and I should probably turn this over to someone younger.”

That’s when Joann and her friend sought a guardian through Kent County Probate Court and ended up with Kimberly St. Onge.

What St. Onge may not have realized was that Joann was still receiving notifications from her friend’s bank account.

“I first saw the check come through for $600,” Joann told Target 8. “And then (the ward’s) rent wasn’t getting paid, nor her utilities.”

Joann and her friend filed a report with GRPD and notified Kent County Probate Court.

“I kind of presumed that (there) was more than one (victim),” Joann recalled. “If (St. Onge) had clients, she wouldn’t just do it to one. So that was kind of the reason we decided we’d report it, to help save others, too. There was no other way to go. It had to be done.”

Joann thought her friend’s affairs would be well-managed.

“I turned it over to the state,” Joann said. “She should have been in good hands.”

Michigan’s Elder Abuse Task Force, convened in 2019 by Attorney General Dana Nessel, has been working to reform guardianship and conservator laws to better protect vulnerable people.

“There really hasn’t been uniform requirements throughout the state,” J. Dee Brooks, Midland County prosecutor and a task force member, said. “That’s what we’re really looking to do… to make (the system) more structured, to have a process where those individuals would be required to be certified by the state so we can make sure they have the necessary qualifications and also so they could be monitored.”

The task force has made progress in some areas, enacting the Financial Exploitation Act and creating a Vulnerable Adult Incident Report Form.

PDF: Elder Abuse Task Force initiatives

But a package of additional reform bills has so far failed to make it to a full vote of the Legislature.

“I think what happened was there was some pushback from the professional organizations (that represent conservators and guardianships),” Brooks explained in an interview with Target 8 via Zoom. “They were concerned it would involve over-regulation.”

But the task force is not giving up the fight for reform.

The AG’s office reports that more than 73,000 older adults in Michigan are victims of elder abuse. If you’re seeking resources or you’ve experienced or witnessed elder abuse, you’re urged to call 800.24.ABUSE (22873) or 855.444.3911.

According to an affidavit filed in 61st District Court, when allegations surfaced against St. Onge in May, Kent County’s Guardianship Program began a review and “found clear evidence of fraud, and commingling of finances.”

“Judge (David M.) Murkowski has issued an order to freeze all bank accounts belonging to Kimberly St. Onge,” a detective wrote in one of the affidavits.

Kalie Gascho, probate court register and administrator, declined comment regarding St. Onge due to the ongoing criminal case. did, however, confirm that the court runs criminal history, central registry and credit checks on all potential guardians. She also said St. Onge began serving as a guardian on May 16, 2023, and was terminated on May 21, 2024.

Court records show the alleged embezzlement occurred from June 1, 2023, to May 2024.

St. Onge, 56, has a clean criminal record in Michigan outside of a 2012 impaired driving conviction, according to the criminal database maintained by state police.

Federal court records show St. Onge, who most recently listed a home address in Zeeland, filed for bankruptcy twice more than 10 years ago.

She’s currently in the Kent County jail in lieu of a $10,000 bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 14.

St. Onge declined a jail visit with Target 8 and her defense attorney declined comment, explaining that she had been assigned to the case the same day Target 8 inquired about it.

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‘Neglect,’ ‘exploitation’ by Kent County guardian prompt criminal enterprise charge

Night nurse granted bond in elder-abuse death case; prosecutor said condition 'ignored'

by Bill Atkinson

COLONIAL HEIGHTS – The night nurse who prosecutors said was “the last hands” on a nursing-home patient before she became ill and died was granted bond Tuesday morning and told to stay away completely from nursing care, the nursing home or any of the other 17 defendants in the case. 

Shakima Freeman Brewer, of Richmond, is one of four defendants jailed on the most serious of all charges, abuse of a vulnerable adult resulting in death, and the second of them to be granted bond. General District Judge Matthew Nelson set the unsecured bond at $5,000 and ordered Brewer to take part in pre-trial services including alcohol and drug screening. 

As of publication time, online court records indicated Brewer had not yet been released from Riverside Regional Jail in Prince George County. She was not physically in court but took part in the hearing via teleconference from the jail.

The victim was a 74-year-old resident of Colonial Heights Rehabilitation & Nursing Center who suffered from cerebral palsy and diabetes. In late September, she was taken to Bon Secours Southside Medical Center in Petersburg with necrotic pressure ulcers – also known as bedsores – around her vaginal area that doctors determined were caused by prolonged exposure to urine and feces that the center staff failed to clean. In October, she died of sepsis due to the bedsores. 

After an investigation, Colonial Heights Police, joined by the state’s Elder Abuse Task Force, raided the Ellerslie Avenue facility on Dec. 18. Eighteen people, including the center’s director, the head of nursing and another care provider, were arrested on various charges of abuse, neglect, falsifying records and obstructing the legal process. 

Prosecutor: Brewer covered up condition 

In court Tuesday morning, deputy commonwealth’s attorney Noelle Nochisaki told the judge that Brewer was the last nurse to tend to the victim before she was taken to the hospital. “She was the last hands on the case,” she said. 

That night, the victim was unresponsive and lethargic, yet Brewer told the nurse who relieved her that “she is doing great,” and there were no issues. 

“Then the day nurse came in and saw something was wrong,” Nochisaki said. At that point, the woman was taken to SMC where the bedsores were detected. She later underwent surgery to remove most of her vagina.

Nochisaki said the victim’s wounds were so grotesque that “doctors first thought it was violent sexual assault due to the trauma and bruising of the area.” 

Nochisaki said that because of her cerebral palsy, the victim was unable to move herself and was supposed to be lifted from her bed to a chair by a special machine. However, an investigation found that the machine was never used, and the only time the victim was removed from her bed, it was done by two orderlies who broke her foot in the process. 

After the surgery, the victim was put into home-hospice care, something Nochisaki said would not have been needed “had it not been for these wounds.” 

In addition to the abuse – a felony – Brewer was charged with five counts of falsifying patient records. Nochisaki said those records were falsified to cover up the repeated neglect. 

“She ignored it,” Nochisaki told Nelson, adding that the stench from the affected area was “overwhelming” and easily recognized. 

A previous felony conviction 

In making the case for her bond, defense attorney Edward Nickel noted that Brewer had a previous felony conviction on her record – driving under the influence in 2016 – but she adhered to all conditions surrounding that conviction and had not been arrested until Dec. 18 at the nursing home. 

Nickel also said there was “some dispute over what her specific role was” in the care of the victim. Since overnight staff is smaller than a regular day shift, Brewer was often responsible for as many as 60 patients at a time. 

The defense counsel did not question the severity of the allegations. But Nickel said circumstances in this case were different because “they did not reflect any specific violence.” 

Nickel said Brewer was not a flight risk and added she intended to remain at her Richmond home with her two sons, ages 22 and 14. 

Brewer’s mother, father, and oldest son sat silently in the courtroom during the 20-minute hearing. 

Two more remain jailed 

When Brewer is released, that will make Shawanda Jeter, the center’s director, and Danielle Cline Harris, another nurse at the center, the only two defendants remaining in custody. Kamesha Michelle Kittrell, a nursing supervisor at the center, was granted bond Dec. 30. 

The remaining 14 defendants were all released on bond or recognizance on charges of either falsifying records or obstructing the legal process. 

Every defendant is due back in court March 26 for preliminary hearings.

Full Article & Source:
Night nurse granted bond in elder-abuse death case; prosecutor said condition 'ignored'

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Colonial Heights

Voting rights bill for adults in guardianships gets support from local residents

By Scott McCaffrey

Under current Virginia law, adults placed into a guardianship or conservatorship are automatically deemed ineligible to vote. One Northern Virginia legislator, backed by a key advocacy group and a number of affected individuals, is working to change that.

State Sen. Barbara Favola (D-40) has introduced legislation that would eliminate the automatic stripping of voting rights of those who come under a guardianship.

“People with differing abilities should have the same chance to participate in our democracy as everyone else,” Favola told FFXnow. “Many people may require a guardian or conservator simply because they need assistance in managing their finances, but this should not mean that an individual is not competent to vote.”

Prefiled in December, Favola’s Senate Bill 765 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Rehabilitation and Social Services. It should receive a sympathetic hearing there, as Favola chairs that committee.

At a legislative hearing hosted by Fairfax County’s delegation to the General Assembly on Saturday (Jan. 4), a number of speakers pressed lawmakers to back the bill.

Among them was Conner Cummings, an advocate for those with disabilities and a citizen representative on the Virginia Disability Commission, a state-government panel that’s supportive of Favola’s bill.

“We may need assistance in certain areas … but if we want to vote, please don’t take that away from us,” said Cummings, who is on the autism spectrum.

“I love to vote,” he told legislators. “I learn about each candidate. Voting allows us to have a voice, to be heard.”

Also speaking in support of the Favola measure was Dennis Findley, a McLean resident who serves as a guardian for his adult son.

Findley said he was taken aback when he learned that his son — who holds down two jobs, including one on Capitol Hill — lost his voting rights when the guardianship was approved.

“My son fully understands what voting means,” Findlay said, sharing that he had to hire an attorney and go back to court to contest the action.

According to Favola, Findlay’s situation is not unique.

“The ARC of Northern Virginia and others shared stories with me about the surprise and disappointment individuals have suffered when they learned they had lost their right to vote,” she said.

Favola’s bill, if passed, would require courts to determine if an individual covered by a guardianship or conservatorship has an interest in voting, and only remove voting rights after a formal determination is made on the matter.

“Moreover, my bill would prohibit the use of ‘poll test’ questions and would require that the court provide an individual with access to appropriate accommodations, if such accommodations are necessary for the individual to communicate their interest in voting,” Favola told FFXnow.

Virginia law allows courts to appoint a guardian or conservator for adults who have been found “mentally incompetent,” meaning they’re unable to process information effectively to the point where they need assistance to address their own health and safety needs and to manage finances.

Guardians are appointed to manage personal affairs, such as a person’s health care and education, while conservators handle financial affairs.

Originally scheduled to start its 2025 session today (Wednesday), the General Assembly is instead recessing until Monday, Jan. 13 due to a lack of water service in Richmond.

If passed and signed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, Favola’s measure would go into effect July 1. Under its provisions, those who lost their voting rights in the past because they’re under a guardianship or conservatorship would be able to file a court petition to regain them.

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Voting rights bill for adults in guardianships gets support from local residents

Wendy Williams’s brother is attempting to ‘Free Wendy’ through merch sale

Wendy Williams's brother, Tommy Williams, says it's in his heart and hers to move to Florida and end her guardianship.

by Annika Harris

Tommy Williams, brother of former talk show host Wendy Williams, revealed recently that he is raising awareness to move his sister to Florida and free her from her guardianship by selling "Free Wendy" merchandise.

Wendy has been under a court-ordered guardianship since May 2022 under the behest of Wells Fargo, which also froze her accounts and argued she was of "unsound mind." Wendy's guardian, Sabrina Morrisey, recently stated that her client is “cognitively impaired and permanently incapacitated." However, her relatives and friends argue otherwise.

According to Tommy, Wendy wants to move to Florida, and he's optimistic that will happen. "That’s something that’s been in my heart and her heart," he told The U.S. Sun, according to The Jasmine Brand.

Tommy spent time with Wendy in Florida recently when she attended her son Kevin Hunter Jr.'s college graduation. He also told The U.S. Sun he is selling T-shirts and mugs in order to raise awareness and funds, presumably.

"She’s not free now, with her liberties, or with what she wants to do," Tommy told the outlet. "It’s a movement."

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Wendy Williams’s brother is attempting to ‘Free Wendy’ through merch sale

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Wendy Williams

Four years since Maya Millete went missing, kids making progress

The sister and brother-in-law have guardianship of Maya's three children.

Author: David Gotfredson

CHULA VISTA, Calif. — It’s been four years since Maya Millete went missing from her home in Chula Vista on January 7, 2021.  Her body still has not been found and her husband, Larry Millete, remains in jail charged with Maya’s murder.  His trial is set for July 7.

Maya’s sister and brother-in-law, Maricris and Richard Drouaillet, were granted custody the missing woman’s three children in August, following a drawn-out court battle with the paternal grandparents.

“It's been a busy household for us, and it's a learning process again, doing schoolwork for the little ones and homecoming for high school,” said Maricris Drouaillet.

The family spent the holidays at the Glamis sand dunes.

“There's been progress, you know, a lot of progress with the kids.  So, we are happy with that, you know, with the guardianship, them being with us.  We're very blessed and grateful for that,” said Maricris, who posted the following statement on Facebook:

"Our lives changed on January 7, 2021 when our sister Maya disappeared. We had done everything in our power to find her, from putting up flyers to coordinating searches every weekend. It’s been a complete nightmare losing her, and the heartache still lingers.

With her disappearance, we also lost touch with her three children with whom we were close. So over the past three years, they did not participate in any searches or attended prayer vigils, walks, and hikes that we’ve arranged to honor their mom. We were heartbroken. It was like losing Maya all over again.

Last August, however, things shifted to our favor: With God’s grace, we were granted guardianship of Maya’s three children.

We had longed to be with Maya’s children for years. But when they came to live with us, they were not the same children we once knew. Their guards were up, and hearts filled with negative perceptions of our family which made reconnecting with them on the emotional level seem almost impossible. But through patience, love, and support from the rest of our family and friends, we are seeing mountains move!

Maya’s children are finally beginning to let us back into their lives! Their guards are slowly coming down and they’ve started to act the same way as when their mom was still around: goofy and loving. They’re mingling more with the family now, catching on (and throwing) jokes, singing karaoke, and just simply hanging out with their cousins. But the most important and meaningful behavior change are their small, unprompted gestures of affection like my husband getting a hug from Maya’s eldest daughter for the first time in nearly four years. He was caught off guard, but the gesture was so profound and moving that it brought him to tears. The hug signified barriers breaking down and a family torn apart by a tragedy is finally coming together. And this means the world to us.

We are incredibly grateful to all of you who have kept us in your thoughts and prayers. Your kindness and encouragement have made this journey possible. Due to the holidays and caring for the children, we couldn’t organize a prayer walk or hike this year as we have in the past... Thank you for standing with us."

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Four years since Maya Millete went missing, kids making progress

New law and local resources help protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation

According to AARP, financial exploitation costs older Americans $28.3 billion every year.

Source:
New law and local resources help protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation

Macomb Co. alliance aims to brings attention to senior abuse and serve victims

by Anne Snabes

Macomb County Office of Senior Services Director Sheila Cote said her colleagues have seen more and more cases over the last few years where they're concerned about the safety of older adults in the community.

She found out that some other counties in Michigan have elder abuse taskforces and ultimately decided to create her own in Macomb. The Macomb County Elder Justice Alliance, which was formed in 2023, brings together various organizations that respond to elder abuse and other senior issues, allowing them to share resources with each other.

The alliance also educates caregivers and seniors about abuse. The alliance says elder abuse includes physical, emotional and sexual abuse, financial exploitation and neglect.

In some cases, a family member is taking advantage of a senior. In others, the older adult lost money in a scam. Sometimes the senior is facing eviction.

"It's time to … call the alarm and and bring attention to this issue and bring community awareness to this issue," Cote said.

She said 1,480 calls or referrals were made to Adult Protective Services' hotline for suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation of people 60 years and older in Macomb County in 2022, and 1,700 calls or referrals were made in 2023. She noted that abuse is underreported, as some people don't know who to call or who to report it to.

"It's almost an epidemic at this point," she said of mistreatment of older adults.

The Macomb County Elder Justice Alliance is made up of roughly 30 to 40 organizations, ranging from the Macomb County Sheriff's Office and Sterling Heights Police Department to the Macomb County Community Mental Health and Shelby Township Senior Center, Cote said. One of the alliance's subcommittees meets monthly to talk about cases of elder abuse or cases where a senior is very vulnerable and needs additional support.

The alliance is one of 33 multidisciplinary teams across the state, according to Cynthia Farrell, the division director for Adult Services in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Cote said that a few years ago, she met with the Muskegon County taskforce and the Genesee County taskforce to learn about their operations. She also contacted the Michigan Department of Attorney General, which offered to help her start a taskforce in Macomb. She said the department has a model in place to set up these taskforces. The Macomb County alliance had its first meeting in March 2023.

The issue of elder abuse

Nearly one-fifth, or 19%, of Macomb County's population is over the age of 65, according to U.S. Census figures. And the number of 65 and older households grew 27% between 2010 and 2022, according to Census data analyzed by the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments.

Nearly 300 people or entities were charged, meanwhile, were charged with a consumer crime against a senior in the county in 2024, according to the Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido. About 150 of those cases are still open.

Eight people have been charged with assaulting a senior this year, and five of those cases are still open. Meanwhile, about 20 people have been charged with embezzling a senior, with at least half of the cases still open.

The prosecutor's office has a Consumer Protection Unit and a Senior Crime Unit. Lucido said some seniors are scammed by family members who have substance abuse or gambling issues. He said other seniors lose money to "seedy" contractors or to people on the Internet.

He said seniors spend a lot of time online, especially during the winter.

"When it's cold out ― they can't get outside ― they're online," he said, "and there's a trust being built with the people they're talking to, and all of a sudden, a scam happens."

Warren resident Shane Price manages the finances of an 80-year-old man. He said a woman who was addicted to drugs was living with the man in Warren. He said the woman wasn't contributing to the senior's rent and he was in fact giving her money.

"This man has several people in his life that could very well be ― they could be good people," Price said. "Perhaps they just weren't sure how to help out in the first place."

Price said he thinks the general public should be educated about how to spot an older adult who "potentially has something going on in their life" and might need help. He said he didn't know that Adult Protective Services existed until a Meals on Wheels worker told him about it.

What the Elder Justice Alliance does

The Macomb County Elder Justice Alliance has two subcommittees, one of which is called the Multi-disciplinary Team. When the team meets, they talk about individual older adults who are victims or who need additional support or services, Cote said.

A representative of the prosecutor's office, for example, might talk about someone she is working with who needs Meals on Wheels. Or maybe the individual doesn't have a place to live, and the team could help them find housing.

"It's really an opportunity to share resources and better support that person," Cote said.

Farrell, the division director for Adult Services in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, said an Adult Protective Services employee participates in the multidisciplinary meetings, and they have been helpful for her division.

"We are very much wanting to promote these multidisciplinary teams, because it really takes a village to really work with some of these clients," she said. "They have multiple needs, and not one entity is going to be able to meet all their needs."

The Elder Justice Alliance also has a prevention subcommittee, which meets monthly. They do tasks such as educating seniors about who to call when they suspect abuse and talking to caregivers about "appropriate boundaries," Cote said.

"I think some caregivers believe, 'Well, I'm handling their money so I can help myself to their money,'" she said. "Well, no, that's not OK."

She said the prevention subcommittee also tries to address "the loneliness and isolation problems" experienced by older adults. They have done surveys at some senior living apartments and have set up focus groups, where seniors can talk about how to alleviate loneliness in their buildings.

Cote said that in October, Macomb County Office of Senior Services received a $750,000 grant from the Department of Justice. The money will be used to train professionals and to provide services to victims.

Office of Senior Services lead case manager Jennifer Wilczek said her position was created as part of the formation of the alliance. She works one-on-one with seniors and makes sure they are receiving the assistance they need.

Wilczek said Adult Protective Services is limited in what it can do. She said the Macomb County Elder Justice Alliance is "filling that gap."

"This kind of fills that gap to provide support and assistance to folks ... in working with Adult Protective Services and what they can do," she said.

Full Article & Source:
Macomb Co. alliance aims to brings attention to senior abuse and serve victims

Daughter arrested for neglect after elderly mother found stuck to mattress

By Greg Rickabaugh

An elderly woman from Augusta was found in a state of severe neglect last week, prompting her daughter’s arrest.

The 82-year-old was discovered incoherent and physically stuck to her mattress during a medical emergency on Dec. 30 at the home they shared on Rollingwood Drive, authorities said.

When paramedics arrived at the family’s home, they found the woman non-responsive, with her skin literally adhered to the mattress due to untreated bedsores. She was rushed to Wellstar MCG Health, where she was stabilized.

Authorities later arrested 54-year-old Tyrossale Peak, the woman’s daughter, charging her with neglect of a disabled or elderly adult. Peak remained in jail over the weekend without bond.

Investigators revealed that Peak had discontinued hospice care for her mother in June but failed to provide adequate care or maintain a safe living environment. The elderly woman had been left in worsening conditions, with her health rapidly deteriorating.

If convicted of felony neglect, Peak faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $50,000, or both.

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Daughter arrested for neglect after elderly mother found stuck to mattress

74-year-old Camden woman accused of stealing thousands from vulnerable adult

$75K was stolen from victim at assisted living facility, according to SC Attorney General's Office

Author: WLTX

CAMDEN, S.C. — A 74-year-old Camden woman has been arrested by officers in the Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud (VAMPF) unit of the South Carolina Attorney General's Office after she allegedly stole thousands of dollars from a vulnerable adult.

Jannie C. Johnson has been charged with Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult and Breach of Trust with Fraudulent Intent, value $10,000 or more after an investigation by VAMPF and the Sumter Police Department. The investigation revealed that between June 22, 2023, and March 21, 2024, Johnson converted $75,000 of the victim's funds for personal use while entrusted with the victim's power of attorney.

The victim, considered a vulnerable adult under South Carolina law, resided at Wildewood Downs Assisted Living Facility, off Polo Road in Columbia, at the time of the alleged misconduct.

Under South Carolina law, Exploitation of a Vulnerable Adult is a felony and, upon conviction, has a penalty of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. Breach of Trust, value $10,000 or more is a felony and, upon conviction, has a penalty of up to 10 years in prison or a fine at the discretion of the court.

Johnson was booked into Alvin S Glenn Detention Center in Columbia on January 3. She was released after attending bond court and posting a $50,000 personal recognizance bond.

If you have any information about Vulnerable Adult abuse or Medicaid Provider Fraud, please report it to Attorney General Alan Wilson’s Vulnerable Adults and Medicaid Provider Fraud unit at: VAMPF@scag.gov; (803) 734-3660 or call toll-free: 1-888-NO-CHEAT (1-888-662-4328). 

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74-year-old Camden woman accused of stealing thousands from vulnerable adult

Elmira man arrested, allegedly hit elderly woman in face

by: Gillian Friebis

SOUTHPORT, N.Y. (WETM) — An Elmira man is facing an assault charge for allegedly hitting an elderly Southport woman in the face multiple times and giving her a black eye.

Alexander Morales, 31, was arrested on Jan. 2 after deputies from the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office were called to a disturbance in the Town of Southport. Authorities say that the deputies who responded determined that Morales struck an 86-year-old woman in her face multiple times. The assault reportedly left the woman with bruising and a black eye.

Morales was charged with second-degree assault, and his charge was read in the Town of Southport Court. After his court appearance, Morales was taken to the Chemung County Jail.

The sheriff’s office says Morales had been staying with the woman for several months before the incident. The Chemung County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division is further investigating Morales’s involvement with the victim and possible additional crimes. Morales could be facing more charges, according to the sheriff’s office.

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Elmira man arrested, allegedly hit elderly woman in face

 

Man sentenced to seven years for abusing disabled, elderly residents at Riverside care facility

 by Madeline Armstrong

(The Center Square) – One of the three individuals found guilty of abusing disabled and elderly residents at an unlicensed care facility in Riverside was sentenced to seven years in state prison. According to court documents, the six victims ranging from 32 to 66, were found malnourished, living in filth and without basic care.

The “care facility” - a house - did not have the proper staff, equipment or licensing necessary to care for the residents who lived there. The other two individuals - Joel Ombao and Nimfa Molina were sentenced earlier this year and late last year.

Ombao was sentenced in July 2024 to five years in state prison for six counts of elder abuse and Molina was sentenced to 122 days in Riverside County jail in October 2023 for one misdemeanor count of elder abuse. Now, Ronnel Tiburcio is the last to be sentenced and has been convicted of six counts of elder abuse likely to produce great bodily harm and death, all of which are felonies.

The victims were housed in Secure Hands Board and Care Facility, one of Ombao’s several hospice companies. Ombao, his assistant Tiburcio and the registered nurse Molina were responsible for operating the facility and caring for the residents living there.

The facility was investigated by the Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA), which investigates and prosecutes those responsible for abuse, neglect and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults in the state in addition to those who perpetrate fraud in the Medi-Cal program, and the Riverside Police Department. DMFEA then prosecuted the case.

Attorney General Rob Bonta helped secure the convictions and sentencing.

“Individuals entrusted with the care of elderly and dependent adults have the utmost responsibility for their well-being and safety,” Bonta said. “At the California Department of Justice, we will not tolerate any elder abuse or neglect and ensure that any exploitation or harm is met with swift accountability. I want to thank my team, along with the Riverside Police Department, for bringing justice to these victims.”

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Man sentenced to seven years for abusing disabled, elderly residents at Riverside care facility

Woman who lost husband after all their children died sobs during Secret Santa surprise

The EastIdahoNews.com team is busy helping a local Secret Santa give $1 million to deserving people in eastern Idaho this holiday season. 

This is the ninth year the Secret Santa is blessing people in our community and every day, from now until the end of the year, we will post videos of the recipients being surprised with these life-changing gifts. 

Ruth Clark's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, resilience, and selflessness. She has faced more challenges and heartache than most of us can even fathom. 

She and her husband raised five beautiful children together. Their four sons were born with Muscular Dystrophy and over time, each one of them died from complications associated with this devastating illness. Her only daughter, Becky, also died from a different illness leaving Ruth and her husband with no living children. 

Despite the weight and disappointment of losing all her children, Ruth embraced her role as a caregiver with grace and dedication. She balanced her role as a devoted wife and mother with her job, which she held for many years. She sacrificed her own dreams and desires to ensure her family received the care, attention, and love they needed. Her strength, both physical and emotional, was nothing short of remarkable. It was not uncommon for her to work a full day and then come home to attend to her children’s needs, all the while ensuring her husband had the support he required. 

After Secret Santa surprised a young father with ALS in 2017, Ruth called and asked if she and her husband Rick could donate their wheelchair-accessible van to the family. She showed up at their Ucon home and gave them the vehicle. Tragically, Rick died last month, leaving a void in Ruth's heart that will never truly heal. 

Secret Santa heard about Ruth and asked the East Idaho News team to pay her a visit with an early Christmas gift. Watch the surprise in the video player above.

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Woman who lost husband after all their children died sobs during Secret Santa surprise

USAO Ends 2024 with Notable Achievements to Combat Elder Fraud

For Immediate Release

U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Ohio

CLEVELAND – Combatting elder fraud continues to be a top priority for the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Northern District of Ohio, in 2024 and beyond. The office is responsible for prosecuting federal law violations that occur in any of the 40 northern counties in the state of Ohio which the district serves.

Prosecutors in the USAO’s White Collar Crimes Unit carry out the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiatives, which include a commitment to combatting elder abuse, neglect, financial fraud, and other scams that target our nation’s senior citizens. Elder fraud schemes take a variety of forms that range from small-scale identity thefts to mass mail fraud schemes that steal money and other assets from thousands of elderly victims. Annually, these fraud schemes bilk seniors out of billions of dollars throughout the country.

“Many fraud crimes that target our elderly population involve criminals taking advantage of this group’s trusting nature. Fraudsters falsely claim to be government officials or promise to help with computer issues, persuading victims to provide fraudsters with access to their personal information,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “Our office prioritizes prosecuting those who prey on the elderly members of our communities in an attempt to steal their savings.”

Notable cases in 2024 that involved elder fraud include:

U.S. v. Alahmad - A caregiver forged a power of attorney document and used it to apply for, and receive, credit and debit cards in the name of the victim who was an elderly adult. The victim was in a nursing home rehabilitation facility while the defendant made unauthorized withdrawals and purchases using the victim’s credit and debit cards. Alahmad was sentenced to 30 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution of $46,064.30.

U.S. v. Xie – A Chinese national college student on an F‐1 Visa traveled across the country, worked as a “money mule” who picked up cash from older victims, and then transferred the funds to his handler. Xie was sentenced to 16 months in prison and ordered to pay $188,000 in restitution.

U.S. v. Wehman – The defendant was charged with wire fraud for stealing from his grandfather by using credit cards, debit cards, and a line of credit. He was sentenced to 37 months in prison and ordered to pay $376,069.46 in restitution.

U.S. v. Turnipseede – The defendant defrauded approximately 72 investors out of more than $8.5 million through a Ponzi scheme that promised investors double-digit profits achieved through a purported algorithm designed to generate double-digit returns through various sports wagering businesses. Defendant used investor money to maintain the business, seek new sources of funds, pay off earlier investors, and fund personal expenses. He is scheduled to be sentenced March 3, 2025.

U.S. v. Alexander – The defendant and other involved individuals engaged in a cold‐calling scheme that targeted older investors throughout the United States. They used aggressive and deceptive tactics and promised large returns if the victims participated in wine and whiskey investments. The court sentenced Alexander to three years of probation and ordered him to pay $202,195.58 in restitution.

U.S. v. Mangukia – Defendants were charged in a conspiracy for falsely posing as customer service employees at a company or bank. Co-conspirators contacted a victim and falsely claimed that the victim’s account was at risk or had been compromised by a hacking event or similar computer intrusion. The conspirators directed the victim to make a wire transfer, convert cash to cryptocurrency at a Bitcoin ATM, and withdraw cash to purchase gold coins and bars. Defendants then traveled to Ohio to pick up the gold bars.

U.S. v. Chaudhary – Defendants were charged as part of a conspiracy for falsely posing as customer service employees at a company or bank. Co-conspirators contacted a victim and falsely claimed that the victim’s account was at risk or had been compromised by a hacking event or similar computer intrusion. The conspirators directed the victim to withdraw cash and had a conspirator pick up the cash from the victim's home.

U.S. v. Kai – The defendant approached victims through social media to invest money into cryptocurrency. Victims were instructed to deposit their money through a “service director” affiliated with a cryptocurrency business. The service director informed the victims that deposits were to be made in person and in cash-only transactions. During one of these transactions, Kai was identified as the individual in a vehicle scheduled to take the victims’ money.

Additionally, USAO staff conducted numerous public outreach efforts to educate the community to be aware of elder fraud scams including:

• “Courier and Grandparent Scams,” National Consumer Protection Week Meeting
• “Tops Scams for 2024,” St. Mary of the Woods Senior Living Community, FBI Organized Crime Conference, and Parma Snow Branch Library
• “Elder Fraud Scams and Robocalls,” St. Mary of the Woods Independent Living
• “Elder Fraud and Cold Calling Investment Scams,” AARP Podcast interview

To report crimes, visit https://tips.fbi.gov/home or https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice/financial-exploitation .

Contact

Jessica Salas Novak

Jessica.Salas.Novak@usdoj.gov 

Updated January 4, 2025

Source:
USAO Ends 2024 with Notable Achievements to Combat Elder Fraud

Social isolation one of the biggest risk factors for elder abuse

by: Corbin Warnock

NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Elder abuse happens all year, but it is more noticeable during the winter months.

Leaders from Adult Protective Services say their reports for fiscal year 2024 were 4,731, which is up more than 200 from fiscal year 2023.

Ali Brown, an investigator with the Adult Protective Services, says self-neglect and financial exploitation were the most common allegations. Social isolation is also one of the most significant risk factors.

Brown says they see abuse coming from all types of communities, from rural farmsteads to nursing homes. Elders are also victims of scams like cryptocurrency and romance.

Brown says not to trust people online or on the phone for who they say they are because scammers are skilled at manipulating people.

“They make it seem urgent. They make it so you don’t tell anybody else. They may be pretending to be a detective, they may be pretending to be the IRS, there are a variety of scams that are out there,” said Brown.

Brown says they already have received calls of abuse, neglect, and exploitation in 2025.

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Social isolation one of the biggest risk factors for elder abuse

Safeguarding Our Seniors: Recognizing and Preventing Elder Abuse in Colorado

by John Mali

Caring for our elderly loved ones is a responsibility that unites communities across Colorado. Seniors have spent their lives building the foundations of the places we call home, and it’s our collective duty to ensure they live their golden years in comfort, dignity, and safety. Unfortunately, elder abuse remains a pressing issue, often hidden behind closed doors in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

From bustling urban centers like Aurora to the vibrant community of Boulder, safeguarding seniors is a statewide concern. Understanding the signs of elder abuse and knowing how to take action are vital steps every family should take to protect their loved ones and hold accountable those who fail to provide proper care.

Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse

Elder abuse can take many forms, often going unnoticed until significant harm has occurred. For families, understanding the warning signs is the first step toward ensuring their loved ones are safe and well cared for.

Common signs of elder abuse include:

• Physical Abuse: Unexplained bruises, burns, or fractures.
• Emotional Abuse: Sudden withdrawal, depression, or fearfulness around specific caregivers.
• Financial Exploitation: Missing belongings, unauthorized withdrawals, or unexpected changes in legal documents.
• Neglect: Dehydration, malnutrition, poor hygiene, or untreated medical conditions.

In Colorado, families can draw on the strong community connections that exist across the state to support their seniors. Whether in Boulder’s close-knit neighborhoods or Aurora’s bustling urban centers, maintaining regular communication with elderly loved ones and staying attentive to warning signs can significantly improve their safety and well-being.

A Statewide Effort to Protect Seniors

Caring for seniors is a shared commitment across Colorado. Communities like Boulder and Aurora exemplify how collective efforts can address elder care challenges and improve conditions in nursing homes.

Boulder fosters a culture of health and wellness through programs that enhance seniors’ quality of life, while Aurora’s diversity brings unique challenges and opportunities for elder care advocacy. Despite their differences, both cities share the goal of ensuring seniors are safe, respected, and cared for.

Families concerned about mistreatment in Aurora nursing homes can seek justice and explore their options with the help of an experienced Aurora nursing home attorney. By fostering collaboration and staying vigilant, communities across Colorado can create safer environments where seniors can thrive.

Taking Action to Prevent Elder Abuse

Preventing elder abuse requires a proactive approach, combining family vigilance with community and professional support.

Steps families can take to prevent elder abuse:

• Stay Involved: Regular visits and open communication with loved ones.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about residents’ rights and responsibilities of nursing homes.
• Know the Warning Signs: Identify physical, emotional, financial, and neglect-related abuse early.
• Report Suspicious Behavior: Speak up if you suspect abuse.

Education is key to empowering families to advocate effectively. Reputable resources, like the National Center on Elder Abuse’s guide to prevention, provide valuable information on identifying abuse and taking action to protect vulnerable seniors.

Communities also play a vital role by organizing local support groups and hosting informational sessions to raise awareness. By working together, families and communities can ensure seniors live in safety, dignity, and respect.

Resources for Colorado Families

Ensuring the well-being of our seniors requires a collective effort, and Colorado offers a variety of resources to support families in this endeavor. Boulder boasts numerous programs aimed at improving seniors’ quality of life, offering opportunities for social engagement and services like transportation and home assistance. These initiatives strengthen the bonds within the community while helping seniors thrive.

When families suspect mistreatment in nursing homes, knowing when to seek legal help is essential for protecting their loved ones and holding facilities accountable. Professionals with experience in Colorado’s elder care laws can guide families through the process and ensure justice is served.

Statewide programs and support groups provide education, emotional support, and practical assistance to families. These resources ensure that both seniors and their caregivers have the support they need to address challenges and maintain a high quality of life.

Conclusion

Caring for seniors in Colorado requires attention, action, and collaboration from families and communities alike. By understanding the signs of elder abuse, utilizing available resources, and taking timely legal steps when necessary, families can help protect their loved ones and ensure they live with dignity and respect.

Though Boulder and Aurora are different in their makeup, they exemplify the shared commitment of Colorado communities to addressing eldercare challenges. Together, we can foster an environment where seniors live safely and with dignity.

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Safeguarding Our Seniors: Recognizing and Preventing Elder Abuse in Colorado