Andrew Newton, Medicare Billing Fraud, Pennsylvania 2010

A shocking case of Medicare fraud has come to light in Mt. Carmel, Pennsylvania, where a local psychiatrist has been charged with billing the government for fake therapy sessions.

Andrew Newton, a 42-year-old resident of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has been accused of submitting false claims to Medicare for psychotherapy services between August 2010 and November 2011. According to the charges, Newton billed Medicare for face-to-face therapy sessions when, in fact, he was out of the country.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced the charges against Newton, who is a psychiatrist with an office in Mt. Carmel. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Williamsport office.

Assistant United States Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson is assigned to prosecute the case, which is subject to approval by the Court. The government has also filed a plea agreement in the case.

Newton is charged with six counts of false billings for psychotherapy services. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of six years imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine under the federal statutes.

The Federal Sentencing Guidelines also require the Judge to consider and weigh a number of factors, including the nature, circumstances, and seriousness of the offense; the history and characteristics of the defendant; and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public, and provide for the defendant’s educational, vocational, and medical needs.

The investigation and prosecution of this case highlight the importance of protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring that those who abuse the system are held accountable. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

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