July 14, 2017

Narco Freedom, Inc., a former operator of outpatient chemical dependency clinics, Joining Hands Management Inc., an operator of short-term residences known as “three-quarter houses,” and Joining Hands co-owner Devorah Haigler, settled claims of violating the False Claims Act.  The government will receive a $50.5 million allowed claim in the Narco Freedom bankruptcy proceeding, and Joining Hands and Haigler will pay $300,000.  The government alleged the defendants engaged in a kickback scheme whereby Narco made monthly cash payments to Joining Hands in exchange for Haigler and others referring residents of Joining Hands three-quarter houses to NARCO outpatient programs.  The allegations originated in a whistleblower lawsuit under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act.  An unidentified whistleblower will receive an undisclosed whistleblower award from the proceeds of the government’s recovery.  DOJ (SDNY)

Tagged in: FCA Federal, Healthcare Fraud, Medicare, Provider Fraud, Whistleblower Case, Whistleblower Rewards,