Great Lakes Wire

United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. announced criminal charges and civil resolutions in connection with schemes to unlawfully distribute controlled substances and defraud federal health care programs. The charges are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Enforcement Action.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, “Today’s record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown sends a crystal-clear message to criminal actors... we will find you; we will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

The nationwide enforcement action resulted in charges against 324 defendants for their alleged involvement in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes, amounting to over $14.6 billion in intended loss. The United States seized over $245 million in assets connected with these activities.

In the Eastern District of Michigan, defendants were charged with conspiring to unlawfully distribute over 1.9 million prescriptions for controlled substances such as Oxycodone, Percocet, and Norco. Civil cases resolved involved $6 million in Medicare and Medicaid fraud.

Operation Gold Rush targeted attempts by foreign actors to steal more than $10 billion from Medicare. United States Attorney Gorgon emphasized collaboration with the Fraud Section Healthcare Fraud Strike Force to protect patients and preserve healthcare integrity.

Charges were filed against Usman Ahmad, Durand Bynum, Ebony Daniels, and Allen Satawhite for conspiracy related to unlawful distribution of Schedule II controlled substances. Cheyvoryea Gibson from the FBI noted efforts to investigate those violating federal law.

Mario M. Pinto from HHS-OIG commented on risks posed by illegal prescribing: “HHS-OIG will continue to collaborate closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute these egregious allegations.”

Villa Financial Services LLC agreed to pay $4.5 million to resolve a lawsuit alleging violations of the False Claims Act by failing to provide adequate services at nursing homes. They will enter a five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with HHS-OIG.

Wahid Makki and Zainab Makki agreed to pay $1.5 million regarding false claims submitted through their pharmacies, Kirtland Corp., aka New Millennium Drugs, and Western Wayne Pharmacy LLC.

The government continues its emphasis on combating health care fraud, urging tips about potential fraud be reported at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.