MIAMI – In a landmark conviction within the Nightingale fraud scheme, Herline Lochard, 46, of Orange County, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Lochard’s role as the registered agent and manager of several fraudulent nursing schools was pivotal in the production and distribution of thousands of fake nursing diplomas.
The Nightingale operation targeted aspiring nurses who were lured into purchasing counterfeit credentials from Florida-based schools now shut down. These bogus documents were used to pass the NCLEX, allowing candidates to obtain state licenses and work as nurses across the U.S.
Lochard’s guilty plea is part of Phase II of Operation Nightingale, which has charged 12 defendants so far. The initial phase saw 30 convictions in 2023 alone. The scheme generated approximately 7,300 fraudulent diplomas, posing a significant threat to public health and safety.
In addition to Lochard, Carleen Noreus of Broward County faces multiple charges related to her presidency at Carleen Home Health School, Inc., and her involvement in recruiting individuals for nursing credentials. Noreus is accused of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, and related offenses.
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing requires candidates to graduate from board-approved programs and pass the NCLEX for licensure. The Nightingale operation underscores the importance of these standards in protecting public health.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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