Jan.28, 2010, Source: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
A Miami man who authorities say used his chain of clinics in a Medicare fraud case has been sentenced to 22 years in prison.
Michael De Jesus Huarte was sentenced in federal court Wednesday. He pleaded guilty last year to various charges including Medicare fraud, money laundering and aggravated identity theft.
The indictment says Huarte submitted about $100 million in bogus bills for HIV therapy and other services. The fraud expanded to other states, including Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina and South Carolina.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Stumphauzer says the 10-person racket also exploited private insurers that administered the government entitlement program under the Medicare Advantage plan.
Three other defendants have fled Miami-Dade County.