More than a Dozen Charged in Major Health Care Fraud Scheme
In a significant development stemming from a nationwide health care fraud investigation, over a dozen individuals from Michigan have been charged. This initiative, part of the Justice Department’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action, has led to the indictment of 324 suspects nationwide for various health care-related offenses.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office revealed that the fraudulent activities primarily involved Medicaid exploitation and the unlawful sale of prescription medications for cash. Federal investigations uncovered a staggering $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets tied to these crimes. Authorities estimate that the schemes could have inflicted a financial loss of approximately $14.6 billion, potentially involving 15 billion pills distributed illegally.
“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,” stated Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Overview of Charges
The cases brought against Michigan residents include severe allegations of fraud and conspiracy:
| Name | Age & Location | Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Usman Ahmad | 66, Lake Orion | Conspiracy to distribute controlled substances |
| Wahid Makki | 62, Dearborn Heights | False claims to Medicaid |
| Dr. Mohmmed Al-Shihabi | 55, Northville | Health care fraud |
| Dr. Priti Bhardwaj | 55, Bloomfield Township | Health care fraud |
| Ali Naserdean | 32, Dearborn | Health care fraud |
Continued Efforts Against Health Care Fraud
The Michigan Department of Attorney General has also indicted several individuals in state court for fraud-related violations. Among those charged are James Alexander Carthron, 61, and Daleena Taree Miller, 42, who are accused of submitting false claims to Medicaid.
Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized the importance of addressing fraud in health care services, stating: “The answer to protecting these vital services is not to cut off access or to drastically slash funding. The States’ Medicaid Fraud Control Units are the most important tool we have to root out fraud and hold bad actors accountable.”
This crackdown sends a strong message regarding the commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that funds are utilized effectively for those genuinely in need.
