Health Care Fraud Earns Ibiteme Richard Bristol Prison Sentence – Comments by White Collar Crime Speaker Chuck Gallagher

One of the hot areas of white collar crime fraud is in the health care arena. The question that continues to amaze me is – do those who perpetrate such a fraud really think they will get by with it?

Reality is every choice has a consequence! This is something Richard Bristol, age 31, is finding out. Sentenced to 33 months in prison and restitution of $892,797.77, Bristol will face life changing experiences as a result of his fraudulent activities.

According to court documents, Bristol, operating as Bristol Nursing Services, provided respite care and personal care services to Medicaid recipients. From January 2006 until September 2007, Bristol submitted 574 false claims totaling $892,797.77 for payment to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). Bristol used nursing aides who were not qualified and not supervised by a registered nurse (RN) as required. To further the scheme Bristol forged the signature of a registered nurse on patient records. Additionally, Bristol falsely claimed payment from the Department of Medical Assistance Services for hours in which the nursing aides did not work.

Now, I would assume that Bristol felt that somehow he wanted or needed the money. However, money ill gotten will result in a negative consequence. As a business ethics and white collar crime speaker, (www.chuckgallagher.com) I know first hand the effects of the choices we make. You do reap what you sow. Not that I’m proud of this, but having spent time in federal prison for unethical choices, I clearly understand what Bristol will be facing soon.

Perhaps, upon his release, Bristol will understand the reality of his choices and use his life following prison for some good.

Comments are welcome!