In order to answer calls for change after reports of widespread abuse and neglect in nursing homes, legislation was passed by Congress in 1987 requiring nursing homes receiving Medicare or Medicaid funds to comply with certain rules regarding the quality of care. While some states have no additional laws regarding the quality of care, these federal guidelines still must be met. Some states have even stricter guidelines. Violating licensing laws and taking Medicare and Medicaid funds can result in serious charges if neglect or abuse is proven. The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reports on a Suwanee man facing serious charges for a nursing home scam.
On Friday, December 22, 56-year-old Harold Louis Hunt was arrested with a statewide investigation into an unlicensed nursing home. He was indicted in Dougherty County on 17 charges, including violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO); neglecting a disabled adult, elder person, or resident; exploitation or intimidation of a disabled person, elderly adult, or resident, and operating an unlicensed personal care home.
Earlier in the year, Hunt’s partner, Michelle Oliver, 39, was arrested on similar charges. Hunt was the payee for benefits paid to cover the care of people Oliver was supposed to be caring for. Hunt then directed Social Security funds to Oliver’s bank accounts.
Oliver had been investigated back in July when elderly residents of apartments Oliver had rented were found begging for food. A total of 14 residents in three unlicensed facilities were rescued.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is still investigating and expect more charges to be filed.
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