The Ohio Revised Code states that Medicaid fraud involves a person who “knowingly makes or causes to be made a false or misleading statement or representation for use in obtaining reimbursement from the Medicaid program.” The penalty if convicted of Medicaid fraud ranges from first-degree misdemeanor to third-degree felony based on the value of the funds obtained.
First Degree Misdemeanor
The value of property, services, or funds obtained is less than $1,000
Fifth Degree Felony
The value of property, services, or funds obtained is $1,000 or more but less than $7,500
Fourth Degree Felony
The value of property, services, or funds obtained is $7,500 or more but less than $150,000
Third Degree Felony
The value of property, services, or funds obtained is $150,000 or more
Financial Crimes Penalties
Based on the classification of the financial crime you are accused of, you may be subject to the following sentence and/or penalty:
First-Degree Misdemeanor
Maximum sentence of 180 days in jail and fine of up to $1,000
Fifth-Degree Felony
Maximum sentence of 12 months in prison and fine of up to $2,500
Fourth-Degree Felony
Maximum sentence of 18 months in prison and fine of up to $5,000
Third-Degree Felony
Maximum sentence of five years in prison and fine of up to $10,000
Financial Crimes Defense Strategy
Not only can being convicted of a white collar crime lead to fines and prison time, but being charged – even falsely – can ruin your reputation. Time is not on your side when it comes to forming a defense strategy against being charged with a financial crime.
Common defense strategies include: a Constitutional rights violation, duress, entrapment, hearsay, illegal search and seizure, lack of evidence, misidentification, and no criminal intent. The success of your case depends on hiring the right team to fight for you – a team that truly understands how the prosecution will present your case and thoroughly dissect problem areas.
