UPDATE: An urgent investigation reveals that Vincente Lopez, a 63-year-old man from East Orange, New Jersey, has been indicted for allegedly stealing over $3.4 million from Medicaid by taking control of his deceased sister’s counseling office. This shocking case highlights significant breaches in health care and tax regulations.
Federal prosecutors confirm that Lopez took over Joyce Lopez & Associates after his sister passed away in 2021. The practice, which operates in both East Orange and Paterson, is supposed to provide legitimate mental health services. Instead, Lopez is accused of filing false claims—totaling a staggering 34,000 billings—despite not being an approved Medicaid provider.
According to Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, Lopez directed employees to falsely bill under the name of an unknowing licensed psychiatrist. This psychiatrist never provided services at the practice, raising serious ethical concerns. Platkin stated, “Lopez allegedly billed Medicaid for appointments that were canceled or for services that were never delivered.”
The implications of this fraud case extend beyond health care. Lopez is also charged with failing to pay state taxes for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023. After being alerted by state officials, he submitted tax returns that did not accurately reflect his income. As of June 18, he owes the state $52,372 in personal income taxes alone, along with a civil fraud penalty of $26,186 and accrued interest of $21,151, bringing his total liability to $99,709.
Authorities are urging anyone who suspects Medicaid fraud to report it immediately by calling investigators at 609-292-1272 or emailing [email protected]. This developing story has raised alarms about the integrity of Medicaid services and the need for stringent oversight.
Lopez’s actions have not only defrauded the state but also put vulnerable patients at risk, undermining the credibility of mental health services. As investigations continue, the community watches closely for further developments in this alarming case.