URGENT UPDATE: A New Jersey man is under federal investigation for allegedly stealing $3.4 million from Medicaid by taking over his deceased sister’s counseling office. Vincente Lopez, 63, from East Orange, has been indicted on serious charges, including health care fraud and tax fraud, as confirmed by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.
Lopez is accused of filing fraudulent Medicaid claims through his sister’s practice, Joyce Lopez & Associates, which he took control of after her passing in 2021. The counseling office, which has locations in East Orange and Paterson, provides mental health services and accepts various insurance plans, including Medicaid.
Prosecutors allege Lopez submitted around 34,000 false claims for psychological services, despite neither he nor the practice being an authorized Medicaid provider. Allegedly, he billed Medicaid for services that were never rendered, including instances when patients canceled appointments or failed to show up.
In a shocking revelation, it is claimed that Lopez directed employees to bill under the name of a licensed psychiatrist who was completely unaware of the scheme. This psychiatrist reportedly never treated any patients at Joyce Lopez & Associates.
The financial fallout is staggering. As of June 18, 2023, Lopez owes New Jersey $52,372 in personal income taxes for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023, and faces additional civil penalties totaling nearly $99,709 when interest and other penalties are included.
Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of reporting any suspected Medicaid fraud, urging the public to contact investigators at 609-292-1272 or via email at [email protected].
This developing story raises significant concerns about the integrity of health care practices and the impact of fraud on essential services. As investigations continue, the community remains on alert for further updates on this urgent situation.
