Strippers Over Nursing Home Residents
In a perfect world, the above headline would be part of the punchline to a horrible joke. Sadly, we don’t live in a perfect world, and this was an actual case that happened in Festus, Missouri. A nursing home owner spent money from Medicaid on strippers that was meant to be used for the 60 residents in his nursing home.
Neglectful Owner
The owner of the nursing company stole $667,000 dollars from his nursing home, which created a dangerous situation for residents he and the nursing home were supposed to be caring for. Residents actually had to be rescued from the facility because of the amount of garbage that piled up inside and the lack of food. Employees had their paychecks bounce after depositing them leaving them in a world of trouble, as well. Bills were not paid, and deliveries stopped. In fact, some residents were not receiving their essential medications due to the pharmacy that provided them not being paid.
Where Was the Government’s Money Going?
The nursing home owner spent the money paid to the nursing home by Medicaid strip clubs, gambling at casinos, his country club, and pet care. When law enforcement caught the owner’s theft, he claimed that he has been struggling with alcohol and drug addictions.
Penalties
The nursing home owner has pleaded guilty to two counts of healthcare fraud. Sentencing is this summer and could mean up to three years in prison in addition to having to pay back all of the money that was stolen from Medicaid and us, the taxpayers! There are sure to be civil suits brought against him by the people that entrusted their family members to his facility’s care.
Read the original article here: Nursing home owner says he spent Medicaid funds on strippers
Nursing home resident abuse and neglect is a serious problem that deserves serious action. No one should have to live in this condition or learn that his or her family member was treated this way. Legal representation can help you get to the heart of the issue and work on protecting your seniors. The Sugarman Law Firm is here for you with a free consultation regarding your loved one.
