A Dearborn Heights pharmacist was arrested March 22 for her alleged role in a $10.6 million insurance fraud ring.
Federal authorities have charged Zeinab Makki, 59, with one count of health care fraud.
According to the criminal complaint, Makki submitted or “caused to be submitted” at least $10.6 million in claims to Medicare and Medicaid for pharmaceuticals that were not actually dispensed.
Makki submitted these claims while working as the pharmacist-in-charge at two Inkster pharmacies, New Millennium Drugs and Western Wayne Pharmacy, according to authorities.
“Taxpayers fund Medicare and Medicaid systems to provide critical resources for senior citizens and other beneficiaries,” U.S. Attorney Dawn Ison said. “We hope that today’s charge reflects my office’s commitment to holding medical providers accountable who engage in such misconduct and exploit these programs for personal benefit.”
If convicted of a health care fraud charge, Makki faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI was in charge of the initial investigation.
Source: Dearborn Heights pharmacist charged in $10.6 million fraud ring / Press & Guide